Dawn of the Dank
BREWERY: Cobra Brewing Co., Lewisville
STYLE: East Coast-style double IPA. Although hop-forward, the East Coast style is very balanced, showing a more restrained hop profile than West Coast IPAs. Double IPAs come in a wide range of styles, but one defining characteristic is a higher alcohol content, typically in the 7.5 percent to 10 percent ABV range.
THE PITCH: This is a beautifully balanced, juicy IPA. True to the East Coast style, it has hop character that's prominent but not too aggressive on the palate. Made with citra hops supplemented with eight other hop varieties, this ale shows grapefruit peel and tropical fruit aromas and flavors. The alcohol level is staggering, at 11.7 percent, yet it's remarkably well hidden. It's a delicious IPA that's dangerously easy to drink.
FUN FACTS: Cobra Brewing Co. has been releasing beer in kegs since 2013, but began packaging its beer last week. Dawn of the Dank, the brewery's flagship beer, will be a year-round offering. Later this week, Cobra will debut All Eyes on Me, a coconut Imperial stout made in collaboration with Lone Star Taps and Caps.
SERVE IT: Enjoyable on its own or with barbecued brisket and ribs, Mexican food or burgers and fries.
GET SOME: Sold in four-packs of 12-ounce cans for about $10.99; widely available at liquor stores and markets that sell craft beers.
Tina Danze
