Back in Black vs Sublimely Self-Righteous Black IPA

Michelob once told its light lager-drinking public, "Don't Be Afraid of the Dark!" Forgive us for thinking Stone Brewing and 21st Amendment Brewery would like us to be—at least a little—afraid of their dark IPAs, decorated as they are with demonic dudes and Harley-riding Paul Reveres. There's nothing to fear inside the bottle (or can), however, as both brews serve up a nicely-balanced blend of hops and dark malts. Stone's offering leans a little heavier on the bitter (a good thing if you are an IPA lover), while both do a good job of offsetting the thickness of dark brews with a pleasing crispness.