A certain style of beer tends to tickle our fancy when it is done well. This style isn’t as common as some more popular styles, but that doesn’t mean it’s not as good or even better. We’re talking about the Black IPA.

We have a great one to talk about today! This particular beer embodies everything a Black IPA should be.

Slack Tide

We were lucky enough to try an amazing Black IPA from Slack Tide Brewing Company, out of Cape May Court House, NJ.

Before we talk beer, let’s talk Slack Tide. A slack tide is a short period in a body of tidal water when the water is completely unstressed. There is no movement either way in the tidal stream. It occurs before the direction of the tidal stream reverses.

The brewery was named after the slack tide because it represents the calm, or a perfect opportunity to relax and enjoy a cold beer. This is what Slack Tide the brewery aims to do, provide that calming atmosphere for you to relax and enjoy.

Fishing For Names

The name of the beer comes from a fishing term. “We are avid fisherman so most of the names of our beers are fishing or coastal related,” stated Jason Campbell, Co-Founder of Slack Tide Brewing Company.

Jason goes on to explain that a knockdown is when a fish hits a trolled lure but does not hook-up. This causes the line to pop out of the fitting on the outrigger.

We appreciate a name that has actual meaning to the people that are involved in brewing the beer. Too often you get names that are way out there, and while they are clever, there’s something more to a name that has personal ties.

Knockdown Black IPA

Looks can be very deceiving in the craft beer world. Just because it looks a certain way, doesn’t mean it’s going to taste that way. For instance, the Black IPA style.

The typical Black IPA is going to be very dark in color. If you were to see this in a glass, you would probably think it was a Stout, or possibly even a Porter. Imagine the surprise when you take that first sip, and your palate is greeted with resinous pine!

Knockdown from Slack Tide Brewing Company has all of the characteristics of the Black IPA style. The rich aroma of roasted malts and piney hops fill the air as you approach the glass. Creamy, tan lacing forms around the top edge of the glass. The taste is a perfect balance of slightly roasted coffee with a burst of hop bitterness.

Knockdown has a medium body and a smooth mouthfeel, making it incredibly drinkable! It had just the right amount of carbonation, tantalizing my taste buds with each sip. The roasted malts and pine really stand out and help this beer shine. This beer demands your attention and will leave a lasting impression.

If you’re not familiar with this style of beer, we like to think of it as a mysterious and captivating character in a story. It’s dark appearance and complex flavors add an air of intrigue and excitement to the experience. Knockdown will stand out from the crowd and will leave you wanting more!

Availability

Knockdown is a seasonal beer. It comes out in late October or early November and is available until the end of March. Folks, it is only February, so you have plenty of time to seek out this multiple award-winning beer and give it a try.

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