Cut Me Down | Third Moon Brewing
Score: 90/100 - outstanding
From a 500ml bottle served cool at 8 degrees Celsius into a TeKu glass. No date information on the bottle but this beer was picked up straight from the brewery a week after the release. Based on the last brew I had from these guys, my expectations are above average.
Appearance (6/6)
The beer pours an opaque pale gold with 5cm of creamy, frothy, white head which dissipates into a craggy cap within 3+ minutes. Exceptional lacing and good head retention.
Aroma (22/24)
Moderate intensity with good balance. The aroma is decidedly hop-forward with beautiful fruity layers. There's a tremendous complexity ranging from woody to citrus to tropical fruit to herbs. Specific descriptors of pine, mango, lemon, coconut, and mint. Low supportive pale malt provides a platform for the hops to shine. The dry nose is a mix of fruity hops and low malt sweetness.
Flavour (35/40)
Medium-strong intensity with good balance. The palate opens up juicy with citrus and tropical notes which pave the way towards a clean, flavourful center where resinous pine, moderate herbaceous character, more citrus, and hints of grass dance on your palate. The long finish is quite balanced and of moderate strength with notes of citrus, pine, spice, herbs, and hints of crackery pale malt. Delish!
Mouthfeel (10/10)
Medium-full body with moderate carbonation. The mouthfeel is fluffy, smooth, yet lively with restrained alcohol warming and an off-dry finish. No astringency or harshness of any kind on the palate. Excellent.
Overall (17/20)
Third Moon Brewing's Cut Me Down is an excellent IPA. I'm finally starting to accept the hazy appearance of certain beers - after having had a handful of non-murky, heady hazies. Third Moon knows how to put out a great looking hazeboi. The overall flavour is satiating and complex with a little bit of old and a little bit of new. I assume Columbus (hop) is anchoring the beer in the past while Mosaic and Sabro bring out depth and new intringue - a worthy combination. The mouthfeel has a nice weight to it yet having a crispness which enhances drinkability. The bitterness is smoof AF. Overall this is a great IPA with impressive flavour delivering a fabulous drinking experience. Did I mention it's off-flavour free? Now I did. I see a pattern forming: Third Moon is putting out beer which demonstrates excellent craftsmanship; a combination of skill and a keen sense for good flavour. Two down, four more to go - I can't wait!