Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA is an 8% double IPA from Hop Kotan Brewing, based in Furano, in Hokkaido. It’s part of their Freedoms range, a chance for them to explore different styles and recipes, and can be found both in bottles and on tap at various places across Japan. However, in spite of the label having a QR code to find out more about the beer, there is a lack of information about what hops and malts went into making Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA.
Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA Aroma and Taste
Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA poured out a clear golden yellow colour with a plump white head on top that clung to the side of the glass throughout drinking. The aroma was certainly a hoppy one, with a strong fruity aroma of lemon, grapefruit, orange, and pineapple coming through, followed by a subtle caramel sweetness from the malts. Even when Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA had warmed up, there was no discernible alcohol heat to the beer either.
Though Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA is labelled as a double IPA, it didn’t have the immediacy of one, with its initial bitterness being softer and smoother than expected. The hops though didn’t relent in the flavours, with the citrus notes mixing nicely with the pineapple and sweetness of the malts. The malt sweetness was restrained and wasn’t cloying either when the beer had warmed up somewhat. With a good balance between the hop flavours and malts, Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA veered well to avoid the pitfalls that double IPAs sometimes have – too sweet or too boozy. Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA finished off with a lingering hoppy fruity bouquet with a touch of sweetness.
Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA The Bottom Line
Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA is a solid, well made double IPA.
Where to Buy Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA
Hop Kotan Ecstasy DIPA can be bought online at the following places:
