If there is one beer that probably doesn’t need to be reviewed again, its Heady Topper. But when I got my hands on one of the highest rated beers in the entire world I just couldn’t resist!

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Although the label implores you to drink from the can, I poured just a little out so I could see the color and distinguish the aroma. It is a beautiful sunshine and pale gold and pours hazy being that it is unfiltered and unpasteurized. It smells of intense tropical fruit: pineapple, mango, and orange peel. And the fresh tropical fruit dances on your tongue with a blast of sweetness as you take a sip. You can distinguish the different fruits, compliments of the six different hop varieties used. Finally, there is a bitterness that builds but is in no way overpowering.

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I can truly say I understand the hype. It is an excellent beer. For an 8% imperial/double it is incredibly drinkable. The best I’ve ever had? That is really hard to say, but it is definitely in the conversation. If you can find a way to get a can (or 12) you absolutely have to do it. It is brewed year round by The Alchemist, based in Waterbury, Vermont. It is hard to find even in the state it is made, and has been the victim of black market knock offs. So drive, fly, ship – do whatever you have to do to get yourself some fresh Heady Topper.

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But now the question is will I ever be the same? Will every IPA I have from here on out seem meaningless and unable to live up to this? I guess there is only one way to find out…keep drinking!