Where – Paso Robles Brewery and more recently at home
How – On Draft and more recently in bottle
ABV – 7.5%
IBUs – 70
Firestone Union Jack IPA calls itself an “aggressively hopped West Coast-style IPA.” It certainly is a West Coast-style IPA, but is not one of the bigger hop bombs out there.
It pours a nice golden color, with average white head.
Fairly aromatic, with citrus and tropical notes, and a hint of maltyness.
Flavor is well balanced. The hops are there, but not overwhelming. Very smooth, and not much bitterness. Tropical notes and grapefruit carry through from the nose.
Overall, I consider Union Jack a great mid-week beer. Nice and smooth, easy to drink, not overpowering. Does not taste like a 7.5%er, hence I do not feel bad having one or two on a Tuesday evening. Always a solid option.
92/100
On another note, drinking at the Paso Robles Brewery is great. The patio allows dogs which is always a welcome sight (see below). The interior is just as great, with TVs for sports, a packed bar, and a cool chic barnhouse feel. There is also a small gift shop with some quality items. All in all, a must stop when driving through Paso, and borderline reason enough to spend the night.
IPA for All 