I had a little time on my hands last Saturday afternoon and found myself within a short walk to the Rhino in Missoula. I know, I know. Lucky me. Someone needs to see what’s new on tap.  This time, it was two brews from the Lost Coast Brewery of Eureka, CA. 

First up was Lost Coast’s 8 Ball Stout.  I’ve seen this one in 12 oz bottles at various beer stores, but had never given it a try. It pours black with some slightly red highlights at the edges and a nice light tan head. The aroma is of roasted malts and a touch of chocolate.  The flavor is of a relatively robust stout with roasted malts, a bit of milk chocolate and a splash of coffee. It has a bit of a creamy mouthfeel to it and a touch of hop bitterness in the finish.  It is a good stout that is very drinkable and carries 6.3% abv.

Next on tap is Lost Coast’s Double Trouble IPA.  As the name suggests, this beer is an imperial IPA and packs a punch at 8.5% abv.  I can’t find any info on the IBUs, but I’ve been surprised to find that imperial IPAs generally don’t rise to the point of having tongue curling bitterness.  Sure, the IBUs are often very high, but the tons of added malt (to bring it up to imperial level) provides a moderating effect with a somewhat sweet backbone.  This one fits that profile. It is a hazy gold color with a touch of orange and a thick white head.  There is a substantial grain malt backbone that transitions into a very pleasant floral and slightly citrus hop flavor. I’d call the citrus grapefruit. The bitterness level is balanced and not overwhelming, but strong in the finish.  I definitely enjoyed it.