Every now and again you see something and know what to do right away. For me it was the newly released Superdelic hop from New Zealand. This hop was made for Hazy IPA’s. The tropical fruit scents and flavours are devastatingly alluring.

Hazy IPA: Embracing the Cloudy Delight

If you're a craft beer aficionado, chances are you've encountered the term "Hazy IPA" on beer menus and online forums. This beer style has taken the world by storm, captivating taste buds with its cloudy appearance and vibrant flavors. But what exactly makes a Hazy IPA distinctive? Let's dive into the hazy world of this fascinating beer style.

Appearance

One of the defining characteristics of a Hazy IPA is its turbidity. Unlike traditional IPAs, Hazy IPAs feature a cloudy appearance reminiscent of freshly squeezed juice. The haze is a result of the interaction between hops, yeast, and proteins suspended in the beer, creating a visually appealing, almost dreamlike appearance.

Aroma

Hazy IPAs burst with an explosion of aromatic intensity. Expect an enticing bouquet of tropical fruit, citrus, and floral notes. Juicy aromas of ripe mango, pineapple, grapefruit, and passionfruit dominate the nose, creating an irresistible sensory experience.

Flavor

When it comes to flavor, Hazy IPAs have much to offer. Their fruity character extends to the taste, with a mosaic of flavors that can pack an intense punch. Juicy, hop-driven notes of citrus, pineapple, stone fruit, and even a hint of resinous pine can dance on your palate. To balance the fruit-forward flavors, a touch of bitterness often accompanies the vibrant profile, adding depth and complexity to each sip.

Mouthfeel

Hazy IPAs typically possess a soft and smooth mouthfeel, which can be attributed to the high protein content derived from the use of adjunct grains like flaked oats or wheat. These silky textures complement the beer's fruit-forward nature, resulting in a velvety drinking experience.

Brewing Secrets

The haze in Hazy IPAs is a product of skillful brewing techniques. Brewers often utilize a combination of specialized yeast strains, hop varieties, and additives like oat or wheat to create the desired hazy effect. Dry hopping at multiple stages during fermentation enhances the aroma and intensifies the juicy flavors. Finally, carefully controlling the water profile, fermentation temperature, and other factors allows brewers to craft a well-balanced and irresistibly hazy beer.

Food Pairings

With their juicy and vibrant flavors, Hazy IPAs make excellent companions for various culinary delights. Their fruity and hop-forward nature complements spicy cuisines like Thai, Indian, or Mexican dishes. Additionally, these IPAs can beautifully pair with grilled seafood, citrus-infused salads, or even tangy cheeses. The possibilities are endless, allowing adventurous beer enthusiasts to explore new taste combinations.

Final Thoughts

Hazy IPAs have captured the hearts of beer drinkers around the globe with their distinctive appearance, explosive aromas, and tantalizing flavors. The cloudiness that defines this beer style is far from a flaw but rather an intentionally sought-after characteristic. So, the next time you come across a Hazy IPA, open your mind to this mesmerizing style and allow yourself to be transported to a hazy wonderland of tantalizing flavors. Cheers to embracing the cloudy delight that is the Hazy IPA!

Fortunately / unfortunately your can’t just have one - this is a beer you can crush despite it’s 6.8% ABV.