The first special release of 2022 from Rocks puts their newly refurbished branding front and centre, creating something a little like a holographic magic eye poster. The beer inside is a mash-hopped, double dry-hopped NEIPA titled Trial By Thiol, a reference to the flavour precursors locked in hops and malt which are mysteriously unlocked by using, as they put it, "carefully selected ingredients" at "specific times". Now, I’m not sure if MHDDH NEIPA sets a new record for abbreviation character counts but I am sure that I want this in a glass right now.
Once in said glass, Trial By Thiol pours the hazy colour of mango juice and gives off some seriously strong aromas: imagine the smell of every hop you’ve ever enjoyed reuniting with grapefruit and a hint of box-fresh sneakers. Then times it by 50. That’s what you’re getting.
Although the aromas tempted me to say a quick prayer before sipping, the first taste is gloriously wet and rich. A full body of papaya and stone fruit provides a palate-tingling linger that is surprisingly easy going for 7.1 percent ABV. The Zamba, Nelson Sauvin, Mosaic and Citra hops create an interesting union, like musicians from different metal bands forming a supergroup to play some ballads. No need to get your lighters out, though, because this is a real beer blanketer in a luxurious 500ml tin.
Smooth and ticklish, Trial By Thiol will leave your tongue feeling like it’s just shaved its legs.
Benedict Kennedy-Cox
Published April 16, 2022 2022-04-16 00:00:00
