West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 is an 8% double IPA / imperial IPA from West Coast Brewing, based in Shizuoka, in Shizuoka, Japan. It’s part of their limited edition range of West Coast Full Hop Alchemist, and can be found in both cans and on tap. No doubt by the time this review comes out there will be a v9 already on sale, perhaps even a v10 too. This version uses El Dorado, Mosaic, and Southern Cross hops.
West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 Aroma and Taste
West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 poured out a deep hazy honey colour with a thick stick white head on top that clung to the side of the glass during drinking – you can see the lacing down the side of the glass. The aroma coming off West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 was far more pungent than other West Coast Full Hop Alchemists in the series with this one reeking of tropical fruits – peaches, melon, and pineapple – and citrus fruits – oranges, lemons, and grapefruits, with a slightly sweet malt-like aroma coming along for the ride as well. When West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 warmed up, there was a faint alcohol heat to it as well but nothing off-putting or potent.
The body to West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 was thick and gloopy, yet dry and refreshing at the same time. It was almost as if someone had made some fruit punch and mixed in some alcohol too as the alcohol hit fast and strong. The tropical fruits and citrus fruits cut through the sweetness well, and lingered on the palate with a dank and resinous flavour just hiding under the surface. I hate to use the word “easy-drinking”, but West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 was and before I knew it, I had finished it and the alcohol had started to do its require job for the evening.
West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 The Bottom Line
West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 is a damn tasty beer. Shame it won’t be around for long.
Where to Buy West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8
West Coast Full Hop Alchemist v8 can be bought online at the following places:
