Brewery: Destihl Brewery (Normal, Illinois)
Style: Hazy IPA
ABV: 5%
IBU: 30
Destihl Brewery, known for its innovative approach to craft beer, brings us Deadhead Easy Haze, a Hazy IPA that aims to deliver big flavor in a sessionable package. As a fan of both hazy IPAs and Destihl’s creative brewing style, I was excited to dive into this one. Here’s my take on this beer…
Appearance
Deadhead Easy Haze pours a cloudy, golden straw color with a frothy white head that lingers nicely. The haze is pronounced, as expected, and it looks inviting in the glass, capturing the essence of what a hazy IPA should be.
Aroma
The nose is a pleasant mix of tropical and citrus notes, with mango, pineapple, and a hint of orange zest taking the lead. There’s a subtle floral undertone, likely from the hops, and a faint bready malt sweetness that balances the aroma without overpowering it. It’s not the most explosive bouquet for a hazy IPA, but it’s certainly inviting.
Flavor
On the palate, Deadhead Easy Haze delivers a smooth and approachable flavor profile. The tropical fruit notes from the aroma carry through, with mango and pineapple leading the charge, followed by a touch of lemon and grapefruit. The malt backbone is light and slightly sweet, providing just enough support to keep the beer balanced. The hop bitterness is restrained, making this a very easy drinking IPA. However, for those seeking a more intense hop punch or juiciness, this might feel a bit muted.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel is where this beer shines. It’s soft, creamy, and velvety, with a medium-light body that makes it incredibly sessionable. The carbonation is moderate, adding a refreshing quality without being too prickly. It’s a textbook hazy IPA texture, and it works well here.
Overall Impression
Deadhead Easy Haze is a solid, approachable hazy IPA that lives up to its “easy” name. It’s not the most complex or bold example of the style, but it’s a good beer and is highly drinkable. Destihl Brewery has done a good job of creating a beer that’s accessible to both hazy IPA enthusiasts and those new to the style. That said, seasoned hop heads might find it a bit underwhelming in terms of hop intensity and depth of flavor.
Ratings
- Appearance – 4/5
- Aroma – 3.5/5
- Flavor – 3.5/5
- Mouthfeel – 4.5/5
- Overall – 3.8/5
Destihl Brewery is known for pushing boundaries, particularly with its Wild Sour Series, but its Deadhead IPA series also deserves attention. The Deadhead Easy Haze is positioned as a more approachable, juicy take on the New England style IPA. It promises big citrus and tropical fruit notes while keeping bitterness in check.
If you’ve tried Distihl’s Deadhead Easy Haze, please share your thoughts about it in the comments below.
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