Moat Mountain Bone Shaker

Bone Shaker is an India Pale Ale brewed by Moat Mountain in New Hampshire, listed at 7.0% ABV and 70 IBU. That bitterness figure puts it firmly in the assertive end of the style, and the maker describes it as intensely hopped with a robust malt backbone and an unusual blend of hops. The malt base is there to hold the hops up rather than let them run unchecked, so expect a sturdier, more structured beer than the lighter, hazier takes on IPA. At 70 IBU, the bitterness should register as a firm, lingering finish rather than a passing snap. Beers built this way usually pair resinous or piney hop notes with citrus peel or stone-fruit character, and a caramel or toasted-bread malt layer underneath tends to round the edges. Treat those as typical of the style and strength rather than a measured profile of this particular beer. The 7.0% ABV adds body and a little warmth, so it drinks fuller than a session IPA and is better suited to a single glass, or a slow second, than to a long afternoon of repeats. Serve it cold but not ice-cold, around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C). Straight from a very cold fridge, the hop aromatics are muted and the bitterness can taste harsher; a few minutes on the counter lets the malt and hop character open up. A tulip or shaped IPA glass is the best choice because the tapered rim concentrates aroma, while a standard pint glass or nonic works fine if that's what you have. Pour with a firm head and leave the last sip behind only if you see sediment. Hop-forward and malt-backed beers like this hold their own against food with real intensity. Grilled or smoked meats, charred burgers, spicy wings, carnitas, and curries all give the bitterness something to cut through, and the malt backbone stands up to richer dishes like aged cheddar or blue cheese. The hop bite also works as a counterweight to fried food. Very delicate dishes such as plain white fish or light salads are likely to be overwhelmed.