Bell’s Hopslam
Brewed in: Kalamazoo Michigan
Hops: 6 varieties culminating with a generous dry-hopped Simcoe addition
Style: Double IPA
ABV: 10%
So with Bell’s Hopslam I am adjusting my rating system on beers to be along the guidelines suggested on Beer Advocate. This is a good beer to start with since it is a beer I am familiar with from other years and one that scores very high in my opinion across the board.
Bell’s Hopslam is a seasonal beer with limited quantities and distribution. This year Bell’s has increased production by 12%. This is a beer I look forward to and I keep an eye out on PhillyTapFinder.com for places it is on tap. I also have been able to get it at Old Philly Ale House in the Fairmont area of Philadelphia.
Appearance: Clear honey colored with good head retention and lasting lacing on the glass. 6/6
Smell: Hops and honey. Very fragrant. This beer promises to be sweet and complex.The hops character is very floral and citrusy. 24/24
Taste: Hops hits the tongue first, citrus (grapefruit) and floral. The honey comes through as a counterpoint, adding balance. This beer covers the 10% ABV very well. 39/40
Mouth feel: Slightly thick with high carbonation..fizzy almost. 9/10
Overall: I always look forward to this beers release each year. It lives up to its reputation in my opinion and has great balance/taste overall. This is simply one of my favorite beers. 20/20
98/100