San Francisco-based Magnolia Brewing is releasing two of its flagship brews in cans for the first time. We sampled them both, straight outta aluminum. Thoughts follow.

Magnolia Proving Ground IPA – This IPA is described as an American-British hybrid that includes British Maris Otter malt used as a counterpart to classic west coast hop strains. The results are slightly familiar to anyone accustomed to hybrid IPA brews, but dazzling nonetheless. Lightly nutty notes and bites of apple give way to big pine resin and citrus notes. The palate is bold and fruity up front, with a lingering finish of lightly toasted grains and a hint of coffee bean. Highly recommended. 7% abv. A / $NA

Magnolia Kalifornia Kolsch – This German style golden ale is malty, buttery, and full of classic notes of banana bread and chewy, freshly toasted grains. Plenty enjoyable on a hot day, but some lightly sweaty notes make the finish a bit funkier than desired. 4.7% abv. B / $NA

magnoliabrewing.com

Magnolia Proving Ground IPA

9.5

Rating

9.5/10

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Christopher Null

Christopher Null is the founder and editor in chief of Drinkhacker. A veteran writer and journalist, he also operates Null Media, a bespoke content creation company.

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