If you’re on the hunt for an IPA that delivers a punch of tropical flavors, Deschutes Tropical Fresh IPA might be your new go-to. Deschutes Brewery has a solid reputation for quality brews, and they’ve done a good job capturing the essence of a sun-soaked island with this one. But let’s break it down.
First Impressions
Cracking open a can of this IPA, the aroma hits you right away—pineapple, mango, and a little bit of citrus. It’s like a fruit salad in a glass, but thankfully not in an overpowering way. There’s also a nice, slightly dank hoppy undertone that reminds you this is still an IPA at its core.
The pour is a lovely golden hue, with a frothy white head that sticks around just long enough to make it visually appealing. On first glance, it’s an inviting beer that makes you want to dive in right away.
Tasting Notes
Right from the first sip, you’re greeted with that bright, tropical burst. Pineapple and mango are the standouts here, with hints of passion fruit and citrus riding shotgun. The hops bring a nice bitterness to balance the fruity sweetness, though it’s not as intense as you might expect from a classic West Coast IPA. It’s definitely more on the juicy side, making it super easy to drink.
What I really appreciate about the Tropical Fresh IPA is its balance. It’s not trying to overwhelm your taste buds with too much sweetness, nor does it blow you away with bitterness. The malt profile is light and crisp, giving it a smooth, almost silky mouthfeel.
The finish is clean, slightly dry, with a pleasant hoppy linger that invites you back for another sip. At 6.5% ABV, it’s also in that sweet spot where you can enjoy a couple without feeling knocked out.
The Downsides
While Deschutes nailed the tropical flavors, one minor gripe is that it might be a little too mellow for some IPA purists. If you’re into that big, resinous, piney bitterness, this one might leave you wanting more of that hop punch. I found myself wishing for just a little more depth on the hop bitterness to keep things interesting throughout the glass.
Another small downside is the finish. While it’s pleasant, it’s not as memorable or complex as some other tropical IPAs out there. It’s a bit straightforward, which might not be everyone’s cup of tea (or pint of beer, in this case).
Rating
- Appearance: 4.5/5 – Gorgeous golden color and great head retention.
- Aroma: 4/5 – A delightful tropical medley, though not super complex.
- Flavor: 4.3/5 – Well-balanced, juicy, and easy-drinking, but a bit light on hop bitterness.
- Mouthfeel: 4.2/5 – Smooth, light, and refreshing, but not especially bold.
- Overall: 4.3/5 – A solid IPA for those who like tropical flavors without getting overwhelmed by hops.
Final Thoughts
Deschutes Tropical Fresh IPA is a refreshing take on the tropical IPA style that’s perfect for casual sipping or pairing with a sunny day. It’s approachable, fruity, and smooth enough for IPA newcomers while still offering enough hop character to satisfy the more seasoned drinkers. While it might not pack the bitterness some IPA lovers crave, it’s still a well-executed brew that’ll likely find a regular spot in my fridge—especially during the warmer months.
If you’re into tropical flavors and want something that goes down easy without sacrificing that IPA identity, give this one a try. Just be ready for a more mellow hop experience!
If you’ve tried a Tropical Fresh IPA, please let us know what you thought about it in the comments below.
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