Avery Brewing (Boulder, Colorado) describes Clear Horizons as a “Bright IPA”…a style that sits between a traditional IPA and a more sessionable, easy drinking ale. This beer aims to deliver the hop-forward character IPA fans love but with a lighter body and a crisp, refreshing finish. Clear Horizons is part of Avery’s rotating IPA series, which showcases their ability to innovate within the ever evolving IPA category. Here’s our opinion on this beer.
Appearance (4.4/5)
Pouring a clear, golden hue with a frothy white head, Clear Horizons lives up to its name. The beer’s clarity is striking, especially for an IPA, and the carbonation creates steady streams of tiny bubbles that enhance its visual appeal.
Aroma (4/5)
The nose is bright and inviting, featuring notes of citrus, melon, and tropical fruit. Hints of grapefruit, orange zest, and honeydew melon dominate, with a touch of pine in the background. It’s fresh and clean but not overwhelmingly aromatic…more of a subtle invitation than a punch in the face.
Taste (4.2/5)
The flavor profile follows the aroma, with citrus leading the way. Juicy orange, tangerine, and a bit of ripe mango come through, balanced by a gentle piney bitterness. The malt base is light and crisp, allowing the hops to shine without excessive sweetness or heaviness. It finishes clean, with just enough bitterness to remind you it’s an IPA, but not so much that it lingers aggressively.
Mouthfeel (4/5)
Medium-light bodied with a smooth, slightly effervescent texture. It’s refreshing and easy to drink, making it an excellent option for warm weather or casual sipping. The bitterness is restrained compared to a West Coast IPA, and the crisp finish encourages another sip.
Overall Impression (4.2/5)
Clear Horizons delivers on its promise of being a bright, approachable IPA. It offers enough hop complexity to satisfy IPA lovers while remaining accessible to those who prefer a less intense experience. It bridges the gap between a standard American IPA and a session IPA, making it a versatile choice for different occasions.
Avery Brewing continues to showcase its brewing acumen with Clear Horizons. It’s a great option for those who appreciate hop-forward beers but want something crisp and easy drinking. While it may not satisfy those seeking the intensity of a classic West Coast IPA, it excels at being refreshing and flavorful without overwhelming bitterness.
If you’ve tried Avery’s Clear Horizons, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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