I first noticed this phenomenon with Arrogant Bastard Ale & Oaked Arrogant Bastard Ale where, I hated Arrogant Bastard Ale, but liked the Oaked Arrogant Bastard, which I assume is the same beer, just aged in Oak.  Well, this beer, is an American Double / Imperial IPA, and not being a big American IPA fan, let alone an American Double IPA fan, I didn't think I would care for this beer much.  But, man, there is something about 'oaking' an IPA that really takes the bitter edge off, yet leaves the flavor; so what is left is a very drinkable and in this case delicious brew.   Instead of a smash you in the face bitterness that takes over the beer, you get a smooth transition from malt to hoppage, and I should add it's a trip filled with flavor.  Seeing as how this is an American Double IPA, it shouldn't be a surprise that hops are the most dominant flavor, but hops aren't the only flavor and not only that the hops seem to have a complexity that keeps one interested and lack the over bearing bitterness that often accompanies beers with this much hoppage.  Don't get me wrong though, this beer is on the sour side, but deliciously so.  When drinking for pleasure, knowing nothing more than this American Double (or single) IPA is Oaked or Not, I'm choosing the Oaked as for me anyway, they seem to bring full flavor, without assaulting my palate.  As for mouth-feel, it's I suppose, full, but on the light side of full with a carbonation that is almost Belgian in it's fine-ness but is medium skewing light.  Ultimately, this style is still not by bag, but man, I cannot deny the tast-i-ness of this brew.  It reeks quality, goes down smooth, has tons of flavor and yet remains smooth.  It's so good in fact that I think I want another right now.

Bottle Cap

Brewery Website

BeerTripper Rating

http://www.dogfish.com/

Alcohol Concentration

10.00

American Double / Imperial IPA

Ale