Han Shot First is a double or imperial American pale ale with 8% from Evil Genius Brewing Co. No strangers to pop culture references Evil Genius proudly proclaims a fact we’ve all known for years, Han shot first!
This ale pours to a vibrant yellow, glowing with a touch of haziness in the appearance and a pillowy white head that sits invitingly atop the glass. The aroma is quite exotic with notes of island fruit coming through alongside a fresh hop tinged grassiness and some pine.
All of the tropical scents play nicely into an opening flavor that features pineapple, grapefruit and mango. A totally rewarding juicy IPA, Han Shot First has a bit of bitter bite, but it’s merely an accent to the mouthwateringly fruity hop flavors that pour from every last drop.
Forays into the double IPA world are generally met with peril as it can be a tricky style with the potential for an overly bitter brew. It also means a chance to compete with some of the major league breweries pumping out the style in Pennsylvania, namely Tired Hands and Sole Artisan Ales. Evil Genius does well here, stepping up to the plate and hitting a home run for a craft beer that should be put into their main rotation of bottled brews.
