Rating: 4.2/5
Boulevard’s Space Camper Sunsayer IPA is like a burst of sunshine in a glass, delivering bright citrus notes and a wonderfully balanced hop character. As part of their Space Camper lineup, this brew embraces the sessionable side of IPAs, making it approachable yet undeniably satisfying for both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts.
The Look and Aroma
Pouring this beer reveals a vibrant golden hue with a slight haze, topped by a frothy white head that sticks around for a while. The aroma is immediately inviting, with big hits of orange zest, juicy tangerine, and a touch of grapefruit. There’s a faint herbal and floral note in the background, hinting at the hops’ layered complexity.
Tasting Notes
- Citrus Explosion: The citrus-forward flavor profile is the star of the show. Bright notes of orange, lemon, and grapefruit dominate the palate, giving it a zippy, refreshing quality.
- Subtle Tropical Undertones: Hints of pineapple and a faint mango sweetness add depth, but they stay in the background, letting the citrus take center stage.
- Hop Character: The hops bring a gentle bitterness, enough to remind you it’s an IPA but without overwhelming the palate. It leans more toward a soft, resinous finish rather than an aggressive, piney bite.
- Malt Backbone: The malt provides a light, biscuity base that keeps everything balanced, giving it a smooth, easy-drinking quality.
- Mouthfeel and Finish: Light-bodied and crisp, it’s the kind of beer that refreshes without feeling too thin. The finish is clean and dry, with just a hint of lingering citrus zest and a whisper of hop resin.
What’s to Love
- Perfect for any Occasion: At 5.7% ABV, this beer is sessionable enough for lazy afternoons but has enough depth to keep you interested.
- Refreshing and Versatile: The bright flavors and light body make it a fantastic pairing for summer barbecues, spicy tacos, or even a casual game night with friends.
- Well Balanced: It’s a great example of an IPA that’s flavorful without being overwhelming…ideal for those who love hops but don’t want to be slapped in the face by bitterness.
A Couple Nitpicks
- Might Not Wow Hop Heads: If you’re chasing a big, bold, double IPA bitterness, you might find Sunsayer’s gentle hop presence a bit underwhelming.
- Limited Complexity: While the citrus is lovely, the flavor profile leans heavily in that direction. A touch more tropical or herbal complexity might elevate it further.
Final Thoughts
Boulevard Space Camper Sunsayer IPA is a delightfully crisp, citrusy brew that nails the balance between flavor and drinkability. It’s approachable without being boring, making it a great gateway IPA for newcomers and a reliable go-to for seasoned craft beer lovers. While it doesn’t break new ground in the IPA world, it does exactly what it sets out to do: deliver a refreshing, citrus-forward experience that’s out of this world.
If you’re looking for a beer that’s fun, flavorful, and perfect for sipping on a sunny day, grab a Sunsayer and let it transport you to your own little orbit.
If you’ve tried a Boulevard Space Camper Sunsayer IPA please share your thoughts about it in the comments below.