Clown Shoes Hoppy Feet Black IPA

Clown Shoes beers are from the Mercury Brewing Company of Ipswich, Massachusetts.

http://www.clownshoesbeer.com/

This 7.0% ABV and 80 IBU beer pours the deepest, darkest brown, appearing black unless held to the light, where it shows tints of deep ruby and garnet.  There is a half-inch of brown head, thick, creamy and foamy.  The aroma is an interesting juxtaposition.  There is a floral, herbal, aromatic, citrusy hops sitting next to a deep, dark roasted maltiness, separate, yet in perfect harmony.  The aroma has the hops just ahead, the taste puts the deep, rich, dark, coffee and dark chocolate malt first, followed by the floral, citrusy hops.  It creates hints of a bittersweet dark chocolate and fruit dessert.  The finish is bitter and quite dry.  This is a quite good black IPA.