Kiko Santiago is an American IPA brewed by Coppertail Brewing Co., and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in an IPA glass from a 16 oz. can.
Packaging art for the Kiko Santiago by Coppertail Brewing Co.
What You Need to Know
The Kiko Santiago is part of Coppertail’s Alpha Hunt series of IPAs. According to the brewery, the Alpha Hunt Beers are “a series of India pale ales dedicated to the discovery of new hops and the constant hunt for innovative IPAs.” And each beer is an opportunity for head brewer Casey Hughes to experiment with some of the latest hop varietals. So how was it? Let’s get to the review.
Appearance
The IPA pours a hazy but not quite opaque deep golden hue. It’s topped by an inch-thick cap of loose rocky, off-white foam that shows good retention. The head’s reduction leaves behind gobs of sticky residue along the sides of the glass.
Check Out the Latest News Article
Aroma
The aroma is bright with a scent of citrus and pine.
Flavor
A neutral taste of white bread leads the palate and then is flushed with a juicy, hoppy bite of grapefruit, lemon, and orange citrus. Pine and resin crest at the top and then the finish mellows with a sweet taste of pineapple and melon.
Label art for the Kiko Santiago by Coppertail Brewing Co.
Mouthfeel
The IPA has a smooth draw with a medium body and matching carbonation. Its finish is somewhat dry, a touch acidic, and has a less-than-moderate astringency.
The Story Behind the Name
n the Alpha Hunt Series of IPAs, each beer is named for a fictional explorer that devoted him or herself to the search for the mythical Coppertail monster that the brewery is named for. Clues to the story of the explorer and the monster are on every six-pack of Coppertail beer- both in and out of the Alpha Hunt Series.
Overall
Though not exactly categorized as such, the Kiko Santiago is very reminiscent of a New England-style brew. It’s appearance is hazy enough, even if it’s not quite opaque. The head’s retention could be better but that’s nitpicking. The aroma is neither strong nor persistent but when present, it is pleasant. Its feel is perhaps a little mild for an IPA but it’s right in line for a NEIPA. Regardless, this brew is certainly refreshing. But it’s the palate that’s by far this brew’s best feature. The hops are juicy and piney through the middle and are every bit as enjoyable taste after taste. Overall, the Kiko Santiago, is an enjoyable IPA and certainly worth trying.
