Night Shift Double Parked

Double Parked is a Double IPA from Night Shift, brewed in Massachusetts, and it carries two numbers that tell you most of what to expect: 9.0% ABV and 85 IBU. That puts it firmly in the imperial IPA range, where the hop load is heavy and the beer is built with enough malt and alcohol weight to hold it up. The producer describes a bold hop presence over a balanced malt backbone, which is the structure that separates a drinkable double from one that simply scrapes the palate. At 85 IBU, expect pronounced bitterness, though styles like this usually soften the edge with a fuller body and a touch of malt sweetness, so the finish reads more resinous than harsh. Hop character in doubles typically runs to citrus peel, pine, stone fruit and tropical notes, and the alcohol adds a gentle warmth on the swallow. Because the malt is described as balanced rather than sweet, think of the bitterness as the lead voice with caramel or bready malt supporting underneath. Serve it cold but not ice-cold, roughly 7 to 10°C (45 to 50°F). Straight from a very cold fridge, the aromatics stay muted and the bitterness comes across sharper; a few minutes out of the cooler lets the hop oils open up. A tulip or an IPA-style glass is the right choice, since the curved bowl and tapered rim concentrate the aroma, and a wide-mouthed pint glass will work as a second option. Pour with a vigorous finish to build a head, which carries those hop volatiles to the nose. For food, a beer this assertive wants dishes with fat, spice or char. Sharp cheddar and blue cheese stand up to the bitterness, and the carbonation and hops cut through burgers, barbecued ribs, fried chicken and spiced curries. Carrot cake or other lightly sweet, spiced desserts can also work, as the hop-forward finish contrasts with the sweetness. Given the 9% strength, a single glass alongside a meal is usually plenty, and it holds up better shared than rushed.