Brewery: New Belgium Brewing
Style: Hazy IPA
ABV: 7.5%
IBU: 42
New Belgium’s Voodoo Ranger Juicy Haze IPA is part of the brewery’s successful Voodoo Ranger series, a lineup known for hop-forward and flavorful IPAs. As a hazy, New England style IPA, this beer promises bold citrus and tropical notes with a smooth, juicy body.
Appearance
The beer pours a cloudy, golden-orange hue with a frothy, white head that lingers nicely. The haze is unmistakable, living up to its name, and it’s visually inviting, especially for those who appreciate the aesthetic of a well crafted New England style IPA.
Aroma
On the nose, Juicy Haze delivers a burst of tropical and citrus notes. Mango, pineapple, and orange zest dominate, with a subtle undertone of pine and floral hops. The aroma is vibrant and fresh, though it doesn’t stray far from what you’d expect from a hazy IPA.
Flavor
The taste follows the aroma closely, with a juicy, fruit-forward profile. Mango and orange take center stage, complemented by a touch of grapefruit and a hint of peach. The malt backbone is soft and slightly sweet, providing balance without overshadowing the hop character. The bitterness is mild, clocking in at 42 IBUs, making it approachable for those who might find traditional IPAs too aggressive. The finish is crisp and refreshing, with a lingering fruitiness that invites another sip.
Mouthfeel
Juicy Haze has a medium body with a smooth, almost creamy texture, thanks to the haze-inducing proteins and oats in the grain bill. The carbonation is moderate, enhancing the beer’s drinkability without being overly effervescent.
Overall Impression
New Belgium’s Voodoo Ranger Juicy Haze IPA is a well executed hazy IPA that delivers on its promise of a juicy, approachable experience. While it doesn’t necessarily stand out in an increasingly crowded field of hazy IPAs, it’s a reliable choice for both seasoned craft beer drinkers and newcomers to the style. The beer’s balance of fruitiness and mild bitterness makes it a great option for warm weather sipping or pairing with spicy foods.
Ratings
- Appearance – 4/5
- Aroma – 4/5
- Flavor – 4/5
- Mouthfeel – 4/5
- Overall – 4/5
Voodoo Ranger Juicy Haze IPA is a solid, accessible hazy IPA that delivers plenty of juicy, hop-forward flavor without overwhelming bitterness. While it might not push the boundaries of the style in a revolutionary way, it’s a consistently enjoyable and widely available option. The price point is reasonable compared to some smaller batch craft hazy IPAs, making it a solid choice.
If you’ve tried a New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Juicy Haze IPA, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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