Golden Road Brewing Co. - Surfliner IPA

So I was checking Facebook on my way to the car after work and saw that my local brewpub, Golden Road Brewing Co., was releasing a new IPA this evening and had to stop by for a growler on the way home.  I don't know much about it except that its a big beer, weighing in a 9% ABV.   Here are my notes:

Appearance - Clear golden-amber with a tight off-white head.

Aroma - Piney and fruity hops; fresh oranges, apricot, and mango.  Slight undertone of biscuity malt.

Taste - Wow, very balanced.  First you get hit with a nice punch of fresh citrus and mango that mirrors the aroma.  The hops are then followed by a pleasant fresh biscuity malt backbone with a hint of sweet caramel.  The hops and the malt play off one another very well.  I would say medium bitterness, not overwhelming in any way, just enough to keep it balance.  Not hints of alcohol, very deceptive 9% ABV beer.  No off flavors.

Mouthfeel - Medium-full bodied.  Carbonation is spot on.  Goes down easy!

Overall - What a well balance very drinkable IPA.  I was expecting a huge IIPA with an aroma that slapped you in the face and a bitterness the punched you in the teeth; but I was pleasantly surprised at the balance.  There is no way you can tell this is a 9% ABV beer, it drinks way smooth.  Good job GRB, keep it up!  Time to enjoy the rest of the growler.