Boulevard Brewing’s Single Wide IPA is a solid go-to if you’re a fan of classic American IPAs with a bit of a throwback vibe. It’s a pretty accessible IPA that appeals to both seasoned hop heads and those who are just dipping their toes into the world of craft beer. Here’s what I thought after a few sips (okay, a few bottles!).
First Impressions
The pour is a nice amber-gold color with a frothy white head that sticks around for a while. It’s got good carbonation without being too fizzy. Right from the first whiff, you get hit with some serious citrus and pine notes, which are super inviting if you’re in the mood for something hop-forward.
Aroma
The nose is all about grapefruit, orange zest, and a touch of pine resin, balanced with a subtle malt sweetness. It’s like walking through a citrus grove, but with that earthy, herbal quality in the background. You can definitely tell this IPA leans into its American hop profile, mainly from the use of Cascade and Centennial hops.
Taste
The taste follows the aroma closely. There’s a bright burst of grapefruit and lemon peel, but it’s not overly aggressive. It’s got a nice crisp bitterness, but not one that will blow out your palate after a couple of sips. You also get a touch of malt sweetness—kind of caramel or biscuit-like—which helps keep everything balanced.
That said, I do think the malt profile is a bit too subtle for my taste. It’s a solid backbone, but I found myself wanting just a tad more complexity from it. It’s not a deal breaker by any means, but if you’re looking for a more malt-forward IPA, this one leans more toward the hops.
Mouthfeel
It’s medium-bodied, not too heavy, and definitely not too thin. There’s a slightly dry finish, but the bitterness doesn’t linger too long. It’s a super drinkable IPA that would pair perfectly with some spicy food or a casual barbecue.
The Negatives
If I had to nitpick, I’d say the bitterness is a bit one-note. After a few sips, it becomes a bit predictable, and I didn’t feel as much complexity as I’ve gotten from other IPAs in the same range. If you’re into those new, hazy, juicy IPAs that are flooding the market right now, this one might feel a little dated, though for fans of a classic West Coast style, that’s likely a plus.
Final Thoughts & Rating
Overall, Boulevard Single Wide IPA is a great choice for fans of a balanced, hop-forward brew that doesn’t overwhelm. It’s a reliable IPA that won’t disappoint, especially if you enjoy citrus and pine flavors. While it might not win over the drinkers chasing the latest trends, it’s got enough character to hold its own in any beer lineup.
Rating: 7.8/10
Pros:
- Classic hop-forward aroma with grapefruit and pine.
- Well-balanced bitterness with a slight malt backbone.
- Easy to drink with a crisp, dry finish.
Cons:
- Bitterness can feel a bit one-dimensional after a while.
- Could use a touch more malt complexity for my taste.
Would I have it again? Absolutely. It’s a great everyday IPA that’s super drinkable and pairs well with a variety of foods. Definitely worth grabbing a six-pack!
If you’ve had a Single Wide (or lived in a single wide) please let us know how it was in the comments below.
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