Shmoo’s Booze Reviews – Ska Brewing Co.’s Decadent Imperial I.P.A.

Nothing sets off the creative spark for me, whether it be music, writing, or the art of the party, better than a fine, dark brew. Since ancient men first took part in the sacrament of adding hops and barley to water and allowing the gods to bestow their spirit to the mystical beverage, beer has been a muse to the artist, the musician, and the bar-stool philosopher alike. So, in preparation to an afternoon and evening of creativity, I went is search of my muse, and I have found it in Ska Brewing’s Decadent Imperial India Pale Ale. With a rich, full flavor and a stout 10% alcohol content, this brew does not fail to deliver.

Labeling is the first thing to catch one’s eye in the hunt for new and exciting libations, and Ska has never fallen short in this department. Decadent’s 1 pint 6oz bottle is elegantly topped with red wax, bringing Maker’s Mark whiskey to mind, immediately giving an appearance of quality. The label itself bears the familiar Ska skeleton, looking dapper as always in grey suit and tie, fedora tipped in greeting, and a sprig of barley gripped between his teeth.

Usually I’m one to simply sip straight from the source, but a good brew deserves a good pour. Decadent has an appealing honey-gold color, a nice full head, and smooth texture. The first pull of the pint brings a pleasant hoppiness, followed by an almost woody bitterness, but not so much as other IPA’s. As one continues to delight in the complex flavors, hints of vanilla and a subtle nuttiness come to the surface. It finishes warm and hearty, like a fresh baked loaf of rye. All in all, a most enjoyable drinking experience.

But what else is there to say, that the taste buds cannot say better than I? I give Ska’s Decadent Imperial IPA four stars out of five, simply because I have yet to taste perfection. Cheers, my dears, and happy drinking!

- Shmooie Bueno