Tap Handle #487: Widmer - Deadlift Imperial IPA

Tap size:  11.75"
Rarity: Common
Mounting:  oversized ferrule on 5/16" anchor bolt

Over the years I had many opportunities to obtain this tap, but never pulled the trigger. Last year I finally picked one up, and I have to say that in person it is a real beauty - photos don't do it justice. The style is reminiscent of the MGD Kegman, but this tap is so much better...the figure on the bottom is a weightlifter, as deadlift is a weightlifting term. Symbolically it means that this beer is heavily loaded with hops. The "glass" that the weightlifter is holding up is not clear acrylic and has no foam on top; instead it is solid colored, with an ultra-thin metallic strip separating the head from the beer. These metallic strips, being so thin, are easily damaged. Some nice graphics bearing the beer's name and the Widmer logo round out the styling of the "glass". On the bottom is the aforementioned weightlifter, in a sculpted abstract form, while at the very top sits a giant hop. The custom oversized ferrule is also a nice touch. The overall "greenness" of the tap is what makes it stand out from the crowd and gives it its beauty. These taps were made in great numbers and are easily found and affordable.

For more about Widmer Brewing, see this post.

Click through to read more about Widmer Brewing's Deadlift Imperial IPA and to see more photos of this hefty tap...

Deadlift Imperial IPA is unlike any Imperial IPA you’ve ever lifted from the beer aisle. It has the strong hop flavor you’d expect from an Imperial IPA but no heaviness that could weigh down your desire to take another sip. The unique flavor stems in part from Nelson Sauvin hops imported from New Zealand. Deadlift’s other component, a simple but fully braced malt backbone muscles up enough malty sweetness and caramel character to spot the incredibly robust hop flavor and aroma. Nelson Sauvin hops are from New Zealand’s best hop growing region: South Island’s Nelson. This region produces some of the most flavorful hops found anywhere. These hops have an intense citrus, fruity, berry-like aroma and flavor that makes them unique.

Ratebeer weighted average:  3.64 out of 5

Beer Advocate:  85 out of 100 (very good)