Lagunitas (Chicago, Illinois) IPA is like that old friend who shows up to the party with a six-pack and makes everyone feel welcome. It’s a staple in the craft beer scene, and while it’s been around for ages, it still manages to charm with its bold, hop-forward personality. Let’s break it down, pint by pint.
First Impressions
The pour is a gorgeous amber-gold with a fluffy white head that lingers just enough to show it’s got some character. Right from the get go, the aroma hits you with a bouquet of pine, citrus, and floral notes. It’s like someone squeezed a grapefruit in a forest…and I mean that in the best way possible.
Rating for appearance and aroma: 4.5/5
Taste and Mouthfeel
On the first sip, it’s clear why Lagunitas IPA has earned its place on so many shelves. The hops are front and center, delivering a citrusy punch of grapefruit, orange peel, and a touch of lemon zest. There’s a resinous, piney undertone that gives it a nice earthy balance, and a hint of caramel malt sweetness peeks through to keep things from tipping into palate wrecking territory.
The mouthfeel is crisp and refreshing, with just enough body to make it satisfying without feeling heavy. At 6.2% ABV, it’s smooth and approachable, striking a good balance between a sessionable beer and one with enough bite to keep hopheads happy.
Rating for taste and mouthfeel: 4.7/5
The Good Stuff
This IPA nails the classic West Coast vibe with its bold, hop-forward profile. It’s versatile, so you can sip it by itself, pair it with spicy tacos, or even throw it next to a juicy burger, and it holds up beautifully. Plus, it’s widely available and consistently fresh, which is a big win for craft fans everywhere.
The Not-So-Great Stuff
If you’re into the hazy, juicy trend that’s taken over the IPA world lately, this one might feel a bit dated. While the bitterness is balanced, it could be a bit much for folks new to the IPA game or those who lean towards sweeter, fruitier styles. Some might also find the caramel malt a touch too present, edging into “old-school” territory.
Rating for balance and uniqueness: 4/5
Final Thoughts
Lagunitas IPA is like your favorite pair of worn-in jeans: reliable, comfortable, and always a good choice. While it doesn’t reinvent the wheel, it doesn’t need to. It’s a quintessential IPA that delivers exactly what it promises: bold hops, balanced bitterness, and plenty of flavor. For longtime fans of West Coast IPAs, this is still a solid go-to. For newcomers or hazy IPA enthusiasts, it’s worth a try to see where the craft beer craze really started gaining momentum.
Overall Rating: 4.3/5
Would I drink it again? Absolutely. Will it blow your mind? Maybe not, but it’ll make your taste buds happy…and sometimes, that’s all you need.
Let us know your thoughts about Lagunitas’ IPA in the comments below.
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