BREWER: Magic Rock, West Yorkshire, England

STYLE: IPA

ABV: 7.4%

VESSEL: 330ml tin

TWITTER: @MagicRockBrewCo

INSTAGRAM: magicrockbrewing

DATE OF POST: 15th August 2021

 

JYMI SAY’S…

There was a time, not that long ago to be fair, where a 7.4% beer was considered crazy strong. Reason being is that, it really is crazy strong. But of more recent times folk don’t raise their eyebrows so much at such a high percentage. TWO reasons for this are that there are plenty of brews around that are way stronger but also when a beer is around 7% nowadays it’s more than often disguised.

Cannon Ball’s booziness is not disguised. It’s boozy. It’s too boozy actually. And lacking some body as well which is most curious seeing as it’s (not sure I’ve mentioned this) really boozy.

Look, this is a perfectly acceptable beer but is a little obvious in it’s characteristics and just missing the point a little. There are decent enough tropical notes in nose and taste. The look in the glass is great. And the mouthfeel is good. But it’s all too predicable and when joined by the fact that it’s lacking body and tasting a bit too strong it all just ends up as a bit disappointing.

Jymi’s Rating: 61%

 

SAMMY SAY’S…

The first thing of note about Cannon Ball is the nose is delightful. Not complicated, but completely tropical. It takes you to a wonderful place that you only hope the taste can deliver on.

Then, as you sup down the lovely amber liquid, you’re hit with an upfront sweetness followed by a short bitter aftertaste. And this is good. This is what we expect, nay demand, of a modern craft IPA. But, yes, there’s a but, it’s all a little underwhelming. And let me be clear, I don’t mean bad, because Cannon Ball is not bad. It’s just, well, it’s mediocre.

Would I have another? Sure I would. If offered.

Would I buy another? Possibly. But Cannon Ball is nowhere near the top of my shopping list.

Sammy’s Rating: 66%

 

MUSE ON BOOZE RATING: 63.5%

MOB review next weekend: AGGLESTONE by HATTIE BROWNS

Musing on Booze weekly since 2017