Melvin 2x4 Double IPA
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Tasting Notes
The nose leads with a bold wave of tropical and citrus hops — think mango, grapefruit, and a touch of pine resin. On the palate, a firm bitterness is balanced by a surprisingly clean malt backbone that keeps the beer from turning syrupy or boozy, though at nearly 10% the alcohol warmth is present if you're looking for it. The body is full without being heavy, and the finish is long and dry with lingering hop oils. It drinks deceptively smoothly for its strength.
About the Brewery
Melvin Brewing started in Alpine, Wyoming, operating out of a Thai restaurant before growing into a full brewery operation with locations in Wyoming and beyond. They built their reputation largely on hop-forward beers, with their double IPA lineup earning serious national recognition, including multiple Great American Beer Festival medals. Their approach leans aggressive on hops without sacrificing drinkability, which has made them a respected name in the competitive IPA market.
Food Pairings
Spicy Thai or Vietnamese food works well here because the bold hop character stands up to heat and cuts through rich coconut-based sauces. A char-grilled burger with sharp cheddar gives the malt backbone something to work with while the bitterness cleanses fat between bites. Strong washed-rind cheeses like Taleggio find a complement in the beer's resinous, fruity notes. Carnitas or slow-roasted pork shoulder pair naturally, as the tropical hop profile mirrors the citrus often used in the marinade.
Style Guide
American Double or Imperial IPA takes the standard American IPA and pushes the hop bitterness, aroma, and alcohol significantly higher, typically landing between 7.5% and 10%+ ABV. The style originated in American craft brewing during the late 1990s and early 2000s as brewers responded to demand for more intense hop experiences. Unlike its English counterpart, it relies on American hop varieties for tropical, citrus, and piney character rather than earthy or floral notes, and the malt bill is built primarily to support the hops rather than add sweetness or complexity of its own.