Introduction
For IPA enthusiasts who appreciate the crisp, clean bitterness of a classic West Coast brew, Modern Times Dungeon Map is a beer you’ll want to navigate your way to. Modern Times is renowned for pushing boundaries with their innovative beers, but Dungeon Map is a return to the fundamentals of the style that put craft beer on the map. With its focus on bold hop character and a crystal-clear profile, this West Coast IPA promises to deliver a nostalgic yet refined experience. Let’s dive into this dungeon of hoppy delights and see how it measures up.
About Modern Times Brewery
Innovators of Craft Brewing
Founded: 2013
Location: San Diego, California
Modern Times has built a reputation as a brewery that blends creativity with technical precision. While they’re well known for their hazy IPAs and experimental stouts, Dungeon Map shows their ability to nail the clean, hop-forward profile of a classic West Coast IPA. True to their ethos, this beer highlights bold flavors while remaining balanced and approachable.
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Classic Clarity
Dungeon Map pours a beautifully clear golden-amber hue with a frothy white head that leaves a delicate lacing on the glass. The effervescent bubbles rise steadily, showcasing the precision of its carbonation. Its pristine clarity is a nod to the traditional West Coast IPA style.
Aroma
Aromatic Adventure
The aroma is a vivid showcase of hops, bursting with:
- Citrus: Grapefruit zest and juicy orange dominate the nose.
- Pine: A fresh resinous pine character adds depth.
- Tropical Fruit: Subtle notes of pineapple and passionfruit make an appearance.
- Herbal Undertones: A whisper of floral and earthy hops rounds out the profile.
The aroma promises a complex yet focused hop experience.
Flavor Profile
First Sip Impression
From the first sip, Dungeon Map delivers a punch of hop bitterness balanced by a light malt backbone, embodying everything a West Coast IPA should be.
Flavor Journey
- Front Palate: Bright citrus flavors of grapefruit and orange peel take the lead, delivering a zesty, tangy kick.
- Mid Palate: The bitterness deepens with notes of pine and herbal hops, giving the beer a crisp and resinous edge.
- Finish: Clean and dry, with lingering bitterness and a hint of tropical fruit sweetness to soften the edges.
Hop and Malt Balance
Dungeon Map’s hop profile is the star of the show, but the malt adds just enough body and sweetness to keep the bitterness in check. The result is a beautifully balanced beer that’s intensely flavorful yet highly drinkable.
Mouthfeel
Crisp and Effervescent
The medium-light body and moderate carbonation create a crisp, refreshing mouthfeel. The beer’s clean finish makes it ideal for those who love a sharp, bitter edge without any lingering heaviness.
Overall Impression
Why Dungeon Map Stands Out
Dungeon Map is a love letter to the West Coast IPA style, offering bold flavors with a level of refinement that’s characteristic of Modern Times. It’s an IPA that pays homage to the roots of craft beer while demonstrating the brewery’s technical expertise and creativity.
Comparative Analysis
While many breweries have shifted their focus to hazy and juicy IPAs, Dungeon Map proves that there’s still a place for the crisp, piney bitterness of the West Coast style. It’s a beer that will appeal to purists while also serving as an excellent gateway for those looking to explore the style.
Bro, Beer Me Rating
Score: 96 out of 100
Dungeon Map is a standout brew that comes close to earning BRO! beer status.
Its crisp bitterness, complex hop character, and clean finish make it a near-perfect representation of a West Coast IPA.
Food Pairing Suggestions
Classic Pairings
- Grilled Steak: The beer’s bitterness cuts through the richness of a well-seasoned steak.
- Fish Tacos with Lime Crema: Enhances the citrusy flavors while balancing the creaminess.
- Wood-Fired Pizza: Pairs beautifully with the charred crust and savory toppings like pepperoni or sausage.
Lighter Options
- Citrus Salad: The beer mirrors the tangy brightness of citrus dressings.
- Goat Cheese Crostini: Complements the creamy tanginess of the cheese while cleansing the palate.
Ideal Drinking Scenarios
Post-Adventure Refreshment
Whether you’ve been hiking, surfing, or just conquering your daily to-do list, Dungeon Map is the perfect beer to unwind with.
IPA Tastings
A must-have in any West Coast IPA lineup, showcasing the crisp, hop-forward style that defined an era of craft brewing.
Where to Find It
Availability
- Retail Stores: Widely available in craft beer shops and select grocery stores.
- Bars and Taprooms: Often found on draft at establishments featuring Modern Times beers.
Brewery Visits
- Modern Times Tasting Room – San Diego: 3725 Greenwood St, San Diego, CA 92110
- Website: www.moderntimesbeer.com
Head to the brewery for the freshest pour and to explore other exclusive brews.
Final Thoughts
Modern Times Dungeon Map West Coast IPA is a beer that embraces the fundamentals of the style while adding a touch of the brewery’s signature innovation. With its bold hop character, clean finish, and exceptional balance, it’s a brew that IPA fans will appreciate and savor.
So, bro, if you’re craving a classic West Coast IPA that delivers everything you love about the style, Dungeon Map is your compass to hop-filled satisfaction.
Join the Conversation
Have you tried Modern Times Dungeon Map?
We’d love to hear your thoughts! Drop a comment below, share your experiences, and let’s toast to beers that take us back to the roots of craft brewing.
Cheers!
BroBeerMe.com—exploring the world one brew at a time. Don’t just drink—experience.
