"Sit Down or I'll Sit You Down!" A Double IPA from Peticolas

Peticolas Brewing Company

Dallas, TX



Velvet Hammer by Peticolas...because I didn't photograph "Sit Down..."

Owner and brewer Michael Peticolas has a way with people.  Perhaps it comes from an unusual mix of cool hobbies and legal savvy (he’s a lawyer by trade).  Ask him about his beer, and you’re his friend.  Ask him for a freebie, and you’re a freeloader.  He’s serious about beer…and just as serious about business.  That’s the impression you get whether you meet the man himself or drink his beer.

I had the pleasure of enjoying the new “Sit Down or I’ll Sit You Down!” double IPA (DIPA) at the Holy Grail Pub in Plano, TX.  At 10% ABV (alcohol by volume), this, like most Peticolas concoctions, requires restraint and moderation.  My first impression is that Michael is spiking his beers with deliciousness.  Peticolas beers have a full-flavor bang on the palette, followed by whatever the style is supposed to leave on your tongue.  The “Sit Down…” is no different.  The hops are mild and only leave a simple bitter aftertaste to justify the “IPA” label; the front end, however, is tasty and slightly malty. 

There are differing ideas of just what the “double” of double IPA should taste like, but it really has to do more with the strength of the brew than anything else.  Doubles typically feature a higher-than-average ABV for an IPA. As for the rest, some double up on the hops to wreck your palette, and some sweeten the brew to mask the uncontrolled antiseptic flavor.  My favorite doubles deliver a slightly malty introduction, followed by a hops finish and high-alcohol kick.

“Sit Down or I’ll Sit You Down” is another Peticolas winner.  Other personal favorites are “Velvet Hammer”, “Wintervention” (seasonal), and “The Duke” (limited).  Try to get your hands on these brews while they’re available.  Cheers!