No Middle Ground IPA is an American IPA brewed by Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in an IPA glass from a bottle.
Appearance
The IPA pours a cloudy burnt orange that is topped by a thick stack of rocky off-white foam. The head shows fair retention and leaves behind a soapy collar and a spittle of lace on the glass.
Aroma
The aroma wafts coffee beans and floral hops.
Flavor
Tart orange leads the palate and recedes to a base of toasted bread. The finish is punched with a juicy bite of grapefruit and is followed by cold-brewed coffee flavor.
Mouthfeel
Its feel is smooth on the draw and picks up a slight grain on the backend. Medium body and matching carbonation.
Overall
Its appearance and feel are fine but the aroma and palate are fantastic. The fusion between coffee and hops is sublime. They really blend so beautifully together. No Middle Ground IPA is only available in variety packs but goes a long way towards making that purchase worthwhile.
Recommended Pairings
Sierra Nevada recommends the following food pairings with their No Middle Ground IPA: buttermilk pancakes topped with fresh berries, Norwegian gjetost, and glazed German chocolate donuts.