What flavor profile is typically expected from a beer with high perceived bitterness?

A beer with high perceived bitterness is often expected to have a floral flavor profile, particularly when it incorporates hops known for their floral characteristics. Hops contribute not only to the bitterness through compounds like alpha acids but also impart a range of flavors and aromas depending on the hop variety used. Floral notes can be prominent in IPAs and other hop-forward styles, where the balance of bitterness and these aromatic compounds can create a complex and enjoyable flavor experience.

While other flavor profiles such as fruity, sour, or spicy can certainly exist in various beer styles, they are not typically associated with high bitterness. Fruity flavors might come from the malt or yeast, sourness usually results from specific fermentation methods or ingredients, and spicy notes could relate to specific grain or adjuncts used in brewing. However, these flavors do not directly correlate with high perceived bitterness the way floral notes do in the context of hop character in beer.