Reviewing Redhook’s Big Ballards – The Brew Site
In the ever-evolving world of craft beer, Redhook Brewery stands as a pioneering force, having ignited the Seattle brewing movement since its inception in 1981. As one of the original American microbreweries, Redhook has weathered the tides of industry changes, yet remains a respected name synonymous with quality and innovation. This summer, the brewery sent the Wine Garden Inn a sampling of its acclaimed Big Ballard series, offering a chance to explore the evolution of this iconic imperial IPA lineup.
Brewery Background
Redhook’s origins trace back to a converted transmission shop in the Ballard district of Seattle, where the brewery first took root and began crafting its now-legendary beers. From those humble beginnings, Redhook has grown to become a respected player in the craft beer landscape, weathering acquisitions and market shifts while maintaining its commitment to producing exceptional brews.
The brewery’s portfolio reflects a deep understanding of beer styles and consumer preferences. Alongside its core offerings, Redhook has championed the development of innovative, boundary-pushing creations – a testament to its unwavering dedication to the craft.
Review of Big Ballards
At the heart of Redhook’s lineup is the Big Ballard series, a collection of imperial IPAs that pay homage to the brewery’s Ballard roots. As we delved into this diverse array of offerings, we were struck by the nuanced flavor profiles and the brewery’s ability to balance bold, hoppy character with refined drinkability.
The original Big Ballard Imperial IPA sets the tone, boasting an 8.6% ABV and 66 IBUs. This classic interpretation presents a deep golden hue and a lacy, off-white head, with a nose that evokes a blend of pine, orange, and dank, resinous notes. On the palate, the beer delivers a classic imperial IPA experience – bold, bitter, and resinous, with a touch of toasted malt and a lingering bitterness that leaves you craving another sip.
The Tropical Big Ballard variant, clocking in at 7.2% ABV and 45 IBUs, takes a more fruit-forward approach. The hazy golden color and effervescent appearance set the stage for a medley of tropical aromas, including orange, pineapple, and coconut. While the flavor profile leans more toward bitterness than juiciness, the coconut and citrus notes add a subtle complexity that balances the beer’s assertive hop character.
Joining the lineup is the newest addition, Big Juicy Ballard, a 9.5% ABV, 30 IBU interpretation that embraces its juicy persona. The hazy, golden appearance and lush, off-white head immediately set the tone. The aroma bursts with fresh-squeezed orange and tangerine, presenting a tantalizing preview of the flavors to come. On the palate, the beer delivers on its promise, with a harmonious blend of fruity, juicy notes, a robust malt backbone, and a well-integrated alcohol presence that adds depth without overwhelming the senses.
Rounding out the collection is Hazy Big Ballard, an 8.7% ABV, 40 IBU hazy IPA that showcases Redhook’s interpretation of the beloved Pacific Northwest style. The hazy, translucent orange appearance and rich, creamy head lead to an aroma that blends lupulin powder, sweet citrus, and a touch of floral alcohol. The flavor profile is a delightful balance of jammy, compote-like notes, spicy bitterness, and a subtle sweetness that ties the components together seamlessly.
Craft Beer Trends
Redhook’s Big Ballard series reflects the broader trends shaping the craft beer landscape. The rise of hoppy ales, particularly imperial IPAs, has captivated beer enthusiasts worldwide, with brewers constantly pushing the boundaries of bitterness, aroma, and alcohol content. The Big Ballard lineup exemplifies this evolution, showcasing Redhook’s ability to craft bold, flavorful beers that cater to the modern palate.
Alongside the hop-forward craze, the popularity of hazy, juicy IPAs has also taken center stage. Redhook’s Hazy Big Ballard and Big Juicy Ballard offerings demonstrate the brewery’s agility in adapting to this trend, delivering interpretations that blend the expected hop characteristics with a softer, more approachable mouthfeel and juicy, fruit-forward notes.
Consumers’ Perspective
As we delved into reviews and ratings for the Big Ballard series, it became clear that Redhook has struck a chord with beer enthusiasts. The original Big Ballard Imperial IPA, in particular, has maintained a strong following, with drinkers praising its classic, no-frills approach to the style. The newer variants, however, have garnered mixed reactions, with some consumers appreciating the creative twists, while others lament the departure from the original’s bold, resinous character.
When it comes to pairing recommendations, the Big Ballard lineup demonstrates its versatility. The imperial IPAs would pair excellently with hearty, grilled meats, bold cheeses, or even dark chocolate desserts, where the beer’s bitterness and assertive hop profile can stand up to the flavors. The more fruit-forward offerings, such as Tropical Big Ballard and Big Juicy Ballard, could potentially find harmony with spicy dishes, tropical-inspired cuisine, or even as a refreshing complement to a Wine Garden Inn brunch.
Conclusion
Redhook’s Big Ballard series stands as a testament to the brewery’s enduring legacy and its ability to evolve with the times. From the classic, bold imperial IPA to the more modern, juicy interpretations, this lineup showcases Redhook’s commitment to crafting exceptional beers that cater to the diverse tastes of today’s craft beer enthusiasts. As the craft beer landscape continues to shift and innovate, it’s clear that Redhook remains a force to be reckoned with, pushing the boundaries of flavor and challenging drinkers to explore the depths of the imperial IPA style.