9th State Imperial Red IPA by 603 Brewery
New Hampshire has a rich history of foundation in New England. The Live Free or Die motto says a lot about how we revere our proud forefathers and what they left for us to carry on. Being the 9th state to join the Union, heritage is what we believe in and that still rings true today. So, in that same heritage, we examine a new re-creation from the 603 folks.
603 Brewery, located in Londonderry, NH, offers year-round beers as well as seasonal beers matched to the changing climate. Just turning three years old, 603 (borrowing its trade name from our area code), has made a major impression in the NH craft beer scene. Starting as brewing friends from college, these folks decided to jump into the emerging craft brew niche with zeal, creativity and a keen angle on NH beer styles, employing names for their different beers that are connected to New Hampshire’s culture. They are today a 30 AND 60 barrel brew house exclusively sold in NH and distributed widely throughout the state in 12 oz cans, 22 oz bottles, growlers (half gallon bottles) and kegs for restaurants and taverns. Visit them at Facebook.com/603Brewery or at their website www.603brewery.com
603 is excited about their new 9th State Imperial Red since it is a completely rebuilt version from the original recipe AND it just won a bronze metal in the 2016 Craft Beer Awards. 9th was the very first recipe brewed by owners Geoff, Tamsin and Dan back in the day.
9th State Imperial is an enormously flavorful beer with both citrusy hop bittering and malt balance. The hop profile is not a smack in the face but a gentle handshake greeting with an introduction to its malty friend. The copper-red toned clarity and abundant off-white head are further hints that this is truly special. Your first sip fills your mouth with lots to discern. Hoppy citrus takes charge but doesn’t scream, while a wonderful malt combination supports it generously. With a luscious mouthfeel and medium to full body, this very satisfying IPA is rated at 9% ABV and yet is not overstated; just a friendly reminder of its brewers love for great tasting beer.
Since this is the first review I am aware of for 603’s new 9th State Imperial, no one has rated it yet… but you can expect to see many chime in on this great beer. You’ll be able to find 9th State Imperial Red IPA shortly as well as the rest of the 603 line-up at Case-n-Keg in Meredith and Laconia and other fine craft beer providers.
Well done 603 Brewery!
Jim MacMillan is the owner of WonByOne Design of Meredith, NH, and is an avid imbiber of craft brews and a home brewer as well. Send him your recommendations and brew news to wickedbrews@weirs.com.
