Bell’s Two Hearted Ale was my first introduction to IPAs, years ago. At the time I was drinking primarily cheap domestics and an occasional wheat beer. I had been impressed at the time with my first introduction to Bell’s Brewery with the Oberon summer wheat ale. I was at a bar and they no longer had Oberon on tap since its season was over. They asked if I wanted the Bell’s they had which was Two Hearted. I agreed to give it a try and my life hasn’t been the same since.

The first time this IPA hit my lips I was shocked at how flavorful it was. I didn’t realize that most beers had more taste than Bud Light…but I was pleasantly surprised. It’s like my eyes had been opened. I had seen the light and realized beer wasn’t supposed to taste like water with a touch of bitterness.

Bell’s Two Hearted proved to be the gateway for me to the world of IPAs. For that, this beer will always hold a special place in my heart. It had been awhile since I enjoyed a bottle of this long time favorite and decided I was due.

It pours a two finger foamy white head and has a very carbonated, golden color. There was a great deal of lacing that adhered to the glass through the duration of the beer. The smell filled my nostrils with the wonderful aroma of hops along with a great floral scent. The taste was as good as ever. The hops are definitely present but not overwhelming. It has a great balance of hops and malts. It is very drinkable and finishes quite crisp.

If you haven’t had this IPA, I encourage you to try my go-to beer when I’m in the mood for some hops.

ABV: 7.0%

Grade: A