Their Red IPA, Flipside, is intended, according to their write-up, for that time of year when we finally "flip" from summer to fall. Not by the calendar mind you but by the type of days. Summer hangs on with heat and humidity and then "BAM!", there is a nip in the air, the humidity drains from the sky, and we can feel the approaching winter chill, even if the sun's warmth is still packing a punch.
Time to put the lighter brews of summer behind and transition toward the heavier, darker brews.
Flipside is offered as the perfect beer for this transition.
As you can see it is very dark in color with reddish tints. It appears almost opaque in this picture but has more of a red color to it in person.
There is a strong citrus scent as you bring the glass towards you. Not at all surprising for a beer from Sierra Nevada to have a powerful nose like that.
The first impression when you taste the beer is of strong pine and malt accents. A slightly citrus aftertaste is also detected, but it's subtle.
There is also bitterness in the first sensation as you drink it, and that bitterness remains throughout the aftertaste.
This is definitely a hearty brew meant to fortify you for the coming harsh and cold weather. A summer beer it is not.
I found Flipside to be an enjoyable drinking experience. However the bitterness never completely leaves you and had to downgrade it a little for that as it seemed there could have been better balance.
I give Flipside Red IPA from Sierra Nevada 6 mugs out of 10.
It is definitely drinkable and warming. Just as intended.