Arctic Ale 2025 | Brasserie Artisanale Albion

Albion’s Arctic Ale presents an enticing appearance but could benefit from better head formation. Its aroma is complex yet lacks harmony, a tension mirrored in the distinct but uncohesive flavour. While the pleasant mouthfeel and well-hidden alcohol are positives, it ultimately lacks finesse, leaving a sense of unresolved potential in this otherwise enjoyable sipper.

Presqu’ile | Tête d’Allumette

A smoky campfire in a glass. Tête d’Allumette’s Presqu’île bends barleywine conventions with bold smoked malt and rustic charm. Its crisp mouthfeel contrasts the high ABV, making it intriguing but hard to pin down. A unique brew to explore, though its intensity suggests savoring over sipping.

L’Impériale Gasket de Tête | Tête d’Allumette

Tête d’Allumette’s L’Imperiale Gasket de Tête is a bold Russian Imperial Stout with deep malt character and complexity. While the mouthfeel could be fuller, the rich flavors make it a worthy choice for stout lovers. However, it may fall just short for those seeking a world-class brew.

Dragon Sap | Labrosse Brewery

Dragon Sap by Microbrasserie Labrosse offers a punchy aroma and solid hop presence, but falls short on balance. Pronounced bitterness and minerality overshadow the style’s expected softness, resulting in a sharper profile and modest drinkability. With some refinement, its strengths could shine more clearly.

Boombox | 5e Baron

A bold and flavorful hazy DIPA with fragrant hops and crisp mouthfeel. While packed with character, it’s held back by salty notes, visible sediment, and hints of yeast stress. Good, but with this much competition, it doesn’t stand out.

Hypa X | Brasserie du Bas-Canada

HYPA X from Brasserie du Bas-Canada starts strong, with a promising appearance and vibrant New World hop aroma. But the promise fades quickly. Acrid hop-burn, minerally salt, and a chalky finish throw the balance off. It’s not a bad beer, just another hazy IPA that looks the part but fails to deliver.

HYPA VII | Brasserie du Bas-Canada

HYPA VII hits the style marks with the expected hazy look and a vibrant hop aroma. But on the palate, high minerality and hop astringency take the shine off. It’s a good beer, just a bit fatiguing. The arms race for haze may be costing us some grace.

HYPA VIII | Brasserie du Bas-Canada

HYPA VIII delivers a bold aroma and satisfying flavor, though the minerality runs a touch high for my palate. A bit of hop burn sneaks in, but overall this is an enjoyable brew. A solid pick for hop lovers – even if it doesn’t quite reach Neron-level heights.