Brewery: Kona Brewing Co. (Kailua-Kona, Hawaii)
Style: Session IPA with Passionfruit, Orange, and Guava (POG)
ABV: 4.5%
IBU: 40
Overview
Kona Brewing’s Hanalei Island IPA is a fruit infused session IPA inspired by the tropical flavors of Hawaii. This brew incorporates passion fruit, orange, and guava (commonly known as POG in Hawaiian juice blends), adding a distinctive island twist to the standard IPA profile. It’s designed to be light, refreshing, and easy-drinking, making it an approachable option for both craft beer enthusiasts and casual drinkers.
Appearance (4/5)
Hanalei Island IPA pours a golden, slightly hazy hue with a fluffy white head that lingers for a short while before dissipating. The carbonation is lively, giving it a crisp, inviting look.
Aroma (4/5)
The nose is vibrant and fruity, dominated by the sweet and tangy aroma of passion fruit and guava. Hints of citrus zest, particularly orange, are present, along with a mild floral hop presence. There’s a subtle malt backbone that provides balance, but the fruit-forward character is the star of the show.
Taste (4/5)
The first sip reveals a delicate harmony between juicy tropical fruit and mild hop bitterness. Passionfruit and guava lead the way, delivering a slightly tart, almost nectar-like quality. The orange adds a bright citrusy lift, while the hop bitterness (though subdued at 40 IBUs) provides just enough bite to remind you this is still an IPA. The malt base is light and slightly bready, allowing the fruit flavors to shine without overwhelming the palate.
Mouthfeel (4/5)
Light bodied with a crisp, refreshing finish, Hanalei Island IPA is highly drinkable. The carbonation is well balanced, creating a lively yet smooth experience. There’s no heavy resinous quality like some traditional IPAs, making it a great warm weather option.
Overall Impression (4/5)
Kona Brewing’s Hanalei Island IPA successfully blends fruit flavors with a mild IPA bitterness, creating an easy-drinking and sessionable beer that captures the essence of tropical refreshment. While hop purists might find it a bit too fruit-forward, those who enjoy fruited IPAs or lighter, citrusy brews will appreciate its well balanced execution.
This beer isn’t a traditional IPA. If you’re a hop head or fan of hop-forward beers, you should probably take a pass on this one. However, this beer is an excellent choice for those looking for something light and flavorful, perfect for a beach day, BBQ, or casual sipping. While not the most complex IPA out there, its accessibility and unique island-inspired twist make it a standout option in the session IPA category.
Final Rating: 4/5
A tropical, refreshing, and easy-drinking IPA with a delightful fruit presence. Ideal for those who enjoy lighter, fruit-forward beers with a touch of hop character.
If you’ve tried a Kona Brewing’s Hanalei Island IPA, please share your thoughts about it in the comments below.
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