Name of beer: Discord Dark IPA
Brewing Company: Pyramid Breweries
Brewing Location: Seattle, WA – Berkeley, CA – Portland, OR
Type of Beer: Dark Ale / India Pale Ale – ABV: 6.5% – IBU: 69
Beer Description: From Pyramid: Discord Dark IPA celebrates the marriage of two distinct styles, the Dark Ale and the IPA. The traditional bitterness of an IPA is juxtaposed against a black malt canvas, creating an ale that keeps your taste buds working to discover all the unique flavors imparted by the 5 different hops and 5 different malts.
The Beer Guy Review: I know what you’re saying, “Hey Beer Guy…this is your second beer review and you’re doing another IPA? Come on!” I only said I know what you’re saying. I’m not listening to what you’re saying. This is a bit different kind of beer, though. A little IPA, a little darker ale. And, Pyramid Breweries was the first real brewery to follow me on Twitter, so I felt obligated to return the favor and review one of their beers.
I purchased the beer (6-pack of bottles) warm and enjoyed my first glass at room temperature. I was surprised to see how it poured into the glass. The carbonation and lightness of the beer made it seem as if I were pouring a soda, with the fizz, color and foam that resulted from the pour. This did not hurt nor help it. I just found it unique. There were even some caramel, soda undertones I detected as well. Later, I enjoyed this beer after sitting in the refrigerator for a few hours. Again, some fizz but not as much foam.
I’ve had Black IPA’s before, namely, the Black Racer from Bear Republic. I thought this would be the same. Instead of getting more of the hoppy notes, whether citrus or pine/evergreen, one might get from an IPA or Black IPA, the Black Ale wins the battle with this beer. Think of a good stout, but not as heavy, and that’s what you get with the Black Ale. But the Black Ale barely wins here, which ultimately makes for a dynamic and tasty beer. Pyramid is right, this beer does keep your taste buds working.
There are so many flavors associated with this beer that are brought from the hops and malts used. I found different flavors and other subtleties come out of the Discord IPA when served both warm and cold. Honestly, this beer could be brewed and enjoyed year-round. Served warm, it’s a nice beer to have during the cold fall and winter months. Served cold, the lightness and ability to stay true to being an ale can make this enjoyable during the spring and summer months. Fortunately for me, I found this in the store in the nick of time. Unfortunately for the rest of you, you better find this beer fast as it’s only available between February and March.
As for the rating, The Beer Guy’s final review is:
Dynamic, complex, unique, multi-faceted…whatever you want to use, it would describe this beer. The fact that it can be served both cold or warm is proof of that. Either way, this is a really good beer. Despite what the name might suggest, I found this ale’s 5 different malts and 5 different hops to work in harmonious unison. The only thing I wish for was a bit more of that citrus/pine/evergreen taste one can get from a traditional, hoppy IPA. Either way, shame on The Beer Guy for thinking the Hefeweizen and Apricot were what Pyramid stuck to. I know better now, and look forward to having some of their “other” beers soon too.
So, what do you think? Have you had this beer? Do you like it? Do you not like it? Send me a note at The Beer Guy’s mailbag, TheBeerGuy@lifeofdad.com. You can follow me on Twitter as well, @TheBeerGuyLOD. Take care, happy (and safe) drinking, and enjoy your weekend.
About The Beer Guy – A dad, husband, friend and drinker of beer. I review & blog about it all on LifeOfDad.com, the premiere social networking website for Dads. The Beer Guy enjoys IPA’s and Pilsner’s, but will really try any kind of beer. You may disagree on some of his opinions. Let The Beer Guy know. Reviews are published on Thursdays. The mailbag is open on Tuesdays. Read more here to learn about The Beer Guy, who he is and his beer rating methodology.
The Beer Guy, and Life of Dad, promote responsible drinking. Never drink and drive.