Aprihop

I remember trying this almost 2-3 years ago when Rock Island Hy-vee got DFH beer. Then again a month ago when I was at Banger's & Lace in Chicago. I finally had the opportunity to sit down and really think my way through this beer while spending the afternoon on Tuesday at 8th Street Grille checking out their new selection!
7.0% ABV

Appearance: Darkened amber with a deep toasted hue. Clarity is optimal, disregarding the some of the inhibitory color. The head is an off white cream color. Very little carbonation, if any can be seen within the glass.
Aroma: Caramel malt and biscuit sweetness surround the surface of the beer. One whiff explains all. Fruity, somewhat woody with even a maple scent. Hops are fragrant and citrusy.
Taste: There is a nice balance of sweet and bitter throughout this beer. Up front one derives a malt base of caramel and toasted malt, while in no way over powering, but more supportive as a foundation to which the hops build from. Some acidity comes with the tart fruitiness from what I assume are the apricots, but peaches and plum are present as well. The hops are quite grapefruity with hints of pine and tropical citrus. A basic American IPA with a West coast hop character. Towards the end, some biscuit flavors emerge as well, adding to the desirable flavor and refreshing smooth taste. Finally the fruit presents itself one last time to turn in a fantastic aftertaste.
Mouthfeel: Medium bodied and extremely crisp and drinkable. The carbonation doesn't just start and abruptly end, but it persists through the entire taste. Drying finish with some stickiness on the lips.
Overall Impression: This is an awesome beer. Fruity and bitter, but doesn't forget its roots in the malt sector. I really enjoyed the emergence of the malt in the second half, after one would expect it to be entirely overtaken by the hops. The fruit is present in the middle and parts of the second half, but isn't overwhelming either. If this is on tap, GET IT. it won't be a disappointment!