If you’re looking for an IPA that takes you on a refreshing journey, the Alaskan Husky IPA is definitely worth checking out. This brew from Alaskan Brewing Co. offers a unique blend of flavors that will satisfy hop lovers while still being approachable for those who aren’t fully committed to the world of bitter beers.
First Impressions
Pouring out of the bottle, Husky IPA is a beautiful, slightly hazy golden color with a decent off-white head that lingers for a while. It’s not super carbonated, so it doesn’t get overly fizzy, which I appreciated. The nose hits you right away with citrus and tropical fruit notes, with some hints of pine in the background. It smells like the kind of IPA that wants to show off its juicy side but still has some bite.
Tasting Notes
Right from the first sip, the tropical and citrus flavors really shine. You get strong notes of grapefruit, orange, and a touch of mango, which give it a really fresh and vibrant character. There’s also a pleasant sweetness from the malts that balances out the hops nicely.
The bitterness is present, but it’s not overwhelming, making it an IPA that doesn’t attack your taste buds with full force like some others in the style. It’s got just enough bite to remind you it’s an IPA, but it’s mellow enough that you could have more than one without feeling like you’re in a hop war.
One of the most notable things about Husky IPA is its light to medium body. It’s crisp and refreshing, which makes it super drinkable, especially if you’re outside on a warm day. At 7% ABV, it doesn’t taste overly boozy either, which is a plus when you’re looking for something easy-going but still packing a punch.
The Good Stuff:
- Great balance: The citrus and tropical fruit notes are perfectly balanced with the subtle bitterness. It’s not too sweet, but not too dry either. It makes for a refreshing, clean finish that keeps you coming back for more.
- Sessionable despite the ABV: At 7%, you’d expect it to feel heavier or boozier, but Husky IPA drinks much lighter than its ABV would suggest. This makes it perfect for those times when you want to enjoy a couple of beers without feeling too weighed down.
- Refreshing flavor profile: With its juicy, tropical-forward flavor, it’s ideal for IPA fans who enjoy more flavor complexity beyond just bitterness.
A Few Negatives:
- Hop heads might want more bitterness: If you’re a die-hard West Coast IPA fan looking for a super aggressive, piney punch, Husky IPA might be a bit too mild for you. The bitterness is there, but it’s not the main event.
- Mouthfeel could be fuller: While the light body makes it easy to drink, it might come off as a bit too thin for those who prefer a more robust, chewy IPA experience.
- Not the most unique IPA: While it’s enjoyable, it doesn’t exactly push the boundaries of the IPA style. If you’re someone who’s on the hunt for bold, experimental brews, this one might not blow your mind.
Rating
- Appearance: 8/10
- Aroma: 8.5/10
- Flavor: 8/10
- Mouthfeel: 7/10
- Overall: 8/10
Final Thoughts
Alaskan Husky IPA is a refreshing, fruit-forward IPA that’s perfect for a laid-back drink with friends. It’s well-balanced and drinkable, especially for those who aren’t into super bitter beers. It’s definitely a good choice if you want something flavorful without being too intense. However, if you’re a serious hop lover seeking a big punch of bitterness, you might find this a little tame. All in all, it’s a solid, easy-drinking IPA that’s worth a try!
If you’ve tried a Husky IPA, please let us know what you thought about it in the comments below.
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