This one had been released previously in 22 oz bottles, so I was a little surprised to see 16 oz cans on the shelf at my local shop. We hadn’t reviewed it in the past, and it’s been a minute since I’ve drank a black IPA, so here I am with a freshly cracked Black Hop in front of me.

Company: Dead Armadillo Craft Brewing

Location: Tulsa, OK

ABV: 6.7% ABV

Style/Description: India Black Ale

Price: $2.99 for a 16 oz can

Appearance: Deep ruby pour, barely translucent, almost an opaque black. Big fizzy tan head and sticky lace.

Nose: Resinous hop aroma, with some roasty notes of coffee and smoke.

Taste: Pine cones and bong rips come through first, with the roasted malts coming in quickly after. Coffee and wood smoke, with pleasant chocolate cookie flavors that vie with the bitter hops. Moderate mouthfeel with a high fizzy carb upon pouring. Perhaps overcarbonated, as it was extremely carbonated to start, but after about 10 minutes the beer was almost flat.

Finish: The smoky roast briefly remains on the palate before the dank hops return for a coda at the very end.

Overall: Black IPAs are not my favorite style, though I haven’t had one in quite a while, so I was ready to review this beer. I was pleased overall, my biggest detraction being the carbonation. I enjoyed the bitter hops that quickly gave way to coffee and chocolate, and a light hint of smoke.

Rating: 3.5/5