This is a complicated beer. Not that we’re surprised -- the brewers at Dogfish Head have crafted beers that make us think for years. The aroma begins big and nutty, similar to baked bread. There’s also a pleasant hop undertone to the smell, but not as big, as the label suggests. The flavor, as the increased alcohol should indicate, is big all around, starting with massive upfront chocolate and coffee sweetness, and dark bread hints throughout. Hops really come through in the taste, with gentle spice and citrus qualities notable on the sides of the tongue, and a bitterness to match. India Brown is surprisingly balanced for all its sweetness, as the brewers use a grainy astringency and hop bitterness to really make things interesting. The beer is full-bodied, highly carbonated, finishes sweet, and has a medium lasting bitterness.
