If you’re a craft beer enthusiast like me, you probably get excited when a brewery experiments with something a little out of this world. Enter Boulevard Brewing Company’s Space Camper Project Synthia, a limited release from their adventurous Space Camper series. Spoiler alert: this beer is a cosmic trip, but like any interstellar journey, it has its highs and minor hiccups. Here’s my take.
First Impressions: Out of This World?
The can art immediately sets the tone…a vibrant, sci-fi inspired design that practically screams, “Drink me, I’m from the future!” Boulevard always nails the visuals, and this one is no exception. Pouring it into a glass reveals a hazy golden color with a frothy white head that sticks around just long enough to admire before diving in.
Tasting Notes: Galactic Goodness
From the first sniff, you know this beer is loaded with hops. The aroma bursts with juicy notes of tropical fruit (think mango, pineapple, and a hint of orange zest). There’s also a subtle floral undertone, giving it a fresh, garden-like vibe.
The first sip is a flavor explosion. The tropical fruitiness takes center stage, but it’s balanced by a solid malt backbone that keeps it from feeling one dimensional. You’ll get waves of citrus peel, a touch of pine, and just enough bitterness to remind you this is still an IPA at heart. The finish is crisp, slightly dry, and leaves a lingering grapefruit pithiness on your palate.
Rating for taste: 9/10
The flavors are well-executed and vibrant. It’s juicy but not cloying…a delicate balance that Boulevard manages beautifully.
Mouthfeel and Body: Smooth Sailing
Synthia’s body is medium, leaning toward the lighter side, with a slightly creamy texture thanks to what I’m guessing is some oat or wheat in the mix. The carbonation is spot-on, giving it a lively, refreshing character that invites another sip, or three.
Rating for mouthfeel: 8.5/10
It’s approachable and easy-drinking for an IPA, with a silky smoothness that complements the hazy style.
What Could Be Better: A Minor Warp-Speed Wobble
If I had to nitpick, the bitterness might come off a tad strong for those who prefer their hazy IPAs to lean sweeter or more fruit-forward. It also lacks some of the “wow factor” that sets apart the truly unforgettable hazy IPAs. The flavor profile, while enjoyable, doesn’t push many boundaries. It’s more crowd pleasing than ground breaking.
Rating for uniqueness: 7/10
It’s good, but not mind-blowing. Still, not every beer has to reinvent the wheel.
Final Thoughts: A Space Odyssey Worth Taking
Boulevard Space Camper Project Synthia is a solid entry into the hazy IPA universe. It delivers juicy, tropical flavors and a well rounded experience that’s sure to satisfy fans of the style. While it doesn’t necessarily rewrite the IPA rule book, it’s a beer you’ll be glad to have in your rotation…especially if you’re chasing that refreshing, summery vibe.
Overall rating: 8.5/10
Definitely worth grabbing if you see it on the shelf. It’s not the final frontier of hazy IPAs, but it’s a star performer in its own right. Cheers to Boulevard for keeping things fun and tasty in the craft beer galaxy!
If you’ve tried a Project Synthia, please let us know your thoughts in the comments section below.
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