Photo courtesy of Cap City Brewing Company.

Capitol City Brewing Company introduced its Rye IPA at the July Tapping Party this Tuesday as part of its 20th anniversary seasonal craft beer series. Only two batches brewed, it is exclusively available during the month of July.This Rye IPA is hazy crimson in color with a medium body. It has moderate carbonation and a soft, lingering finish. There is a slight sweetness on the nose from the malts, reminiscent of apricot and smoke.

A light and dry peppery spice from the presence of English rye malts (15% to be exact) help form the malt backbone with notes of toffee, toast and molasses from the caramelized rye and Munich malts. Of course, no Rye-PA would be complete without hops and this one in particular is well-balanced with American Centennial which lends a bright citrusy hop bitterness to the finish.

Don’t let its murky complexion fool you; this Rye IPA is crisp and drinkable. At 6.5% ABV you might find yourself ordering another, thanks to the craftsmanship of the brewers and the guidance of Capitol City’s Director of Brewing Operations Mike McCarthy, who also appreciates a good beer he can drink more than one of without getting totally sloshed.

This limited Rye IPA is available at both Capitol City Brewing Company brewpubs (Arlington, VA and Washington, DC) as well as 901 Restaurant & Bar and Penthouse Pool Club.

-Guest Writer & Beer Aficionado, Meagan (MLC)

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