Cigar City Brewing, based in Tampa, Florida, has built a reputation for crafting bold, innovative beers that often pay homage to the Sunshine State’s quirky culture. Their Florida Man Double IPA is no exception, offering a beer that’s as intriguing as the infamous “Florida Man” headlines that inspired its name. This 9.0% ABV double IPA is a hazy, hop-forward brew that delivers a mix of tropical fruitiness and resinous bitterness, making it a solid choice for IPA enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes
Pouring a cloudy golden-orange with a frothy white head, Florida Man immediately entices with its vibrant appearance. The aroma is a burst of ripe mango, pineapple, and citrus, underscored by a hint of pine and a touch of biscuity malt. On the palate, the beer is juicy and tropical upfront, with flavors of tangerine, passion fruit, and a touch of peach. The mid-palate introduces a balancing bitterness, with notes of grapefruit pith and a subtle herbal quality. The finish is moderately dry, with a lingering resinous hop character. The mouthfeel is medium-bodied and smooth, with just enough carbonation to keep it refreshing despite its higher ABV.
What Stands Out
What makes Florida Man unique is its ability to balance intense hop flavors with a drinkable, approachable profile. While many double IPAs can feel heavy or overly bitter, this beer manages to stay lively and refreshing, making it a great option for warm Florida weather. The use of Citra, Mosaic, and Simcoe hops is a classic combination, but Cigar City’s execution ensures the flavors pop without overwhelming the palate.
Brewery Background
Cigar City Brewing has become a standout in the craft beer scene, not just for its quality but also for its creativity. The brewery often incorporates local ingredients and cultural references into its beers, and Florida Man Double IPA is a playful nod to the internet’s fascination with Florida’s eccentric news stories. This beer is part of their year-round lineup, which speaks to its popularity and consistency.
Ratings
- Appearance: 4.2/5 – Hazy and inviting with a lasting head.
- Aroma: 4.1/5 – A tropical fruit basket with a touch of pine.
- Flavor: 4/5 – Juicy and complex, though the bitterness might be slightly sharp for some.
- Mouthfeel: 4/5 – Smooth and well-carbonated, but could be a touch fuller.
- Overall: 4.1/5 – A well-crafted double IPA that embodies Cigar City’s flair for bold, flavorful beers.
Florida Man Double IPA is a testament to Cigar City Brewing’s skill in creating hop-forward beers that are both flavorful and approachable. While it may not reinvent the double IPA style, it’s a reliable and enjoyable offering that captures the spirit of Florida.
If you’ve tried Cigar City Brewing’s Florida Man Double IPA, please share your thoughts about it below.
Leave a Reply