Cali-Belwhat

Since they started distribution in the Chicagoland area a few months ago, Stone Brewing has really grown on me. Finnegan's Irish Pub used to have 30 different beers by Stone on tap, so I got to try a rather large selection of their line-up, including rare beers that have been cellared for the past few years. Plenty of them stood out, like their Smoked Porter with Vanilla Bean, El Camino (Un)Real Black Ale, and the Cali-Belgique Belgian-Style IPA.

One great quality of IPA's are their ability to balance out rich, creamy, fatty, and greasy foods with their crisp refreshing bitterness. That is what helps to make them a great choice for a summer drink. Back when it was on tap at Finnegan's, I had a glass of Cali-Belgique with a plate of onion rings. By themselves, the two has really opposing tastes - Cali-Belgique with its floral and citrus bitterness, and the onion rings with their greasy and saltiness. However after a few rings, the beer seemed different - not as bitter, but instead creamy and drinkable, while still retaining a light citrus flavor. A very good pairing I think.

Cali-Belgique India Pale Ale
Brewery: Stone Brewing Co.
Country: USA (California)
Style: Belgian-Style IPA
ABV: 6.90
IBUs: 77
Serving Type: 22oz Bottle
Cost: (unknown at the moment, bottle was a gift. Will edit as soon as I know)

Apperance: Hazy golden orange. Creamy and lasting head that leaves a nice lacing on the glass.

Aroma: Very fragrant and floral with a nice citrus hoppiness.

Taste: Strong notes of orange citrus and pine bitterness, as well as spices. Decent carbonation, and a nice hint of sweetness in the aftertaste that was not expected with an IPA but helps to balance out the hoppy bitterness. Leaves a smooth coated feeling in your mouth.

This is another fine brew by Stone that I would recommend to anyone that likes bitter beers. Cali-Belgique also currently stands as one of my favorite IPAs to have with a meal. It balances very well with anything that has a nice creamy or rich taste to it.

You can still find Cali-Belgique at Binny's I believe - it has been awhile since I looked for it though.