Three Floyds Belgian Style Double India Pale Ale

So, I have documented my love for the slowly growing trend of Belgian IPAs; however, what about Belgian Double IPAs?  Since I am American, bigger should mean better, right?  I saw Three Floyds new Belgian Style Double India Pale Ale and thought I might as well find out.  It doesn't hurt that the label has a guy with a mustache and a cigarette.  I imagine that has to make it taste better, right?

Three Floyds Belgian Style Double India Pale Ale

Appearance- A very hazy orange gold color with a small egg shell white head the becomes increasingly patchy.  Low amounts of lacing on the glass.

Smell- Grassy hops stick out, although they are nicely balanced against a pineapple and lingering clove esters.  Behind the hop character there also seems to be an almost candy-like character.

Taste- The grassy hops are more aggressive in the taste as they jump out with hop resin in the beginning of the beer and continue in the middle.  Ass the beer transitions into the middle, a slight clove taste is distinguishable with underlying Belgian phenolic flavor.  However, bitterness picks up at the same time limiting the esters and phenols' contribution.  Large bitter finish with just a touch of the candy character and a noticeable alcohol taste.

Mouthfeel- Full bodied with moderate carbonation.  Hops leave mouth a little raw.

Overall- Tastes almost exactly like a double IPA.  I am not sure the Belgian yeast lends itself to this style.  Nevertheless, look at that label.  In the name of being cool, I will allow it.