Tongue Tickles – Noble Ale Works

Of all of the SoCal breweries on the rise in the past few years, it is hard to name one that has had a greater impact in such a short time period than Noble Ale Works. With experienced brewer Evan Price (formerly BJ’s Brewhouse/Hangar 24) at the helm, Noble has seen its share of hits, including a showstopping Milk Stout called Naughty Sauce. While many breweries seem to feel more at home in one area of the craft beer spectrum, Noble has had no trouble volleying between great stouts, pils, pales, and a series of single hop IPAs that have cemented them as a leading brewery in Southern California.

Another notable offering has been Tongue Tickles, a DIPA that debuted at Mohawk Bend‘s inaugural Los Angeles IPA Festival last year and took home the grand prize.

Tongue Tickles pours a rich copper with a cap of rocky foam that dissipates, but lingers with good lacing. The nose kicks off with a big hop punch that is highlighted by a medley of citrus and tropical fruit.

Taste follows suit with bright piney hops seated on top of a sturdy malt base exemplary of a Double IPA. A substantial mouthfeel and caramel malt sweetness create a nice base for just the right amount of fresh hop bitterness and a big dose of citrus rind from the perfect harmony of Galaxy, Citra, and Simcoe hops.

Overall balance is exceptional with ideal carbonation and a finish that rides out the fresh hop bitterness, ending on a slightly dry note. A cool 8% ABV keeps this beer on the conservative side of a DIPA, holding the booziness at a level where other flavors can easily present themselves. For my money this is one of the better Double IPA’s out there at the moment.

Cheers!
DAVE