Beers of the Year: 4. Goose Island Imperial IPA

Brewery: Goose Island, Chicago, Illinois

Style: Imperial IPA

ABV: 9.2%

Rating: 5 stars

Whoa. You want an explosion of flavorful hops, this is your beer. Three kinds of hops: Tettnang, Simcoe and Cascade give this beer power and potency in every swallow. I wouldn't recommend this beer for a Bud-lover, but if you think you like hoppiness, this beer will either confirm or overturn your feelings.

The hops are there up front, but where this beer stands out is after it slides down your throat. There is no residual metallic taste that can sometime rear its ugly head at a beer's finish. It goes down smoothly, piney and sharp, and maintains a balance throughout each and every sip. This beer is an accomplishment.