Head to Head: Weyerbacher Hops Infusion vs. Anderson Valley Hop Ottin IPA

Welcome to another Head to Head challenge. Today we have two India Pale Ales from America. The first is from Pennsylvania and is the Weyerbacher Hops Infusion. The second is from California and is the Anderson Valley Hop Ottin IPA.

As usual the tasting was done blind and to style.
Style: India Pale Ale. View the Top IPA’s

Beer	Weyerbacher Hops Infusion	Anderson Valley Hop Ottin IPA
Brewer	Weyerbacher	Anderson Valley
Country	America	America
State (if Applicable)	Pennsylvania	California

Appearance: Winner – Ottin

Infusion – This beer has an attractive yellowish-amber color with a small off-white head. The head recedes quickly leaving little lace.

Ottin – This has a similar yellowish-amber but the off-white head has more size and leaves attractive lave as it slowly diminishes.

Aroma: Winner – Infusion

Infusion – The aroma strats off with a bit of sweetness. There is then a buildup of resin and perfume smells from the hops.

Ottin – This one has a distinct hop aroma. A little on the harsh side.

Taste: Winner – Infusion

Infusion – An initial caramel sweetness is replaced by a growing hop bitterness that builds in intensity but never overpowers the senses.

Ottin – This has a deep hop bitterness that for me is just a bit to strong.

Body/Finish: Winner – Infusion

Infusion – This beer continues to impress with a nicely judged body (light-medium) and a bitter finish that invites you back for more.

Ottin – Good dry finish with a good amount of bitterness in the long finish.

Overall: Winner – Infusion
Like the last time with the Hop Ottin these were put into a nice Duvel glass. Unlike last time it had little effect on the decision. The Weyerbacher just got better and more flavorful in the big glass. It has all I would want in an IPA; great hop aroma, good bitterness, dry finish and a wonderful refreshing balance. The Hop Ottin has lots going for it assuming you like a lot of hops. But the Weyerbacher has more flavor and character without feeling like it is lacking in hop bitterness and thus it chalks up another win.

~ by alelagerlambic on July 15, 2008.