If you’re a fan of West Coast-style IPAs, Firestone Walker’s California IPA is going to be right up your alley. Known for their craft brewing excellence, Firestone Walker delivers a crisp and bright IPA that’s as easy to drink as it is full of flavor.
First Impressions
Pouring a golden, slightly hazy hue with a moderate white head, the California IPA looks exactly how you’d expect a quality IPA to. Right from the first sniff, it bursts with citrusy aromas—think grapefruit, lemon zest, and maybe a hint of tropical fruit. There’s a piney, resinous undertone, too, giving it that classic West Coast IPA character.
Tasting Notes
On the palate, the beer is well-balanced and refreshing. The citrus flavors from the nose carry through to the taste, with dominant notes of grapefruit and orange peel. You also get a touch of pineapple and a mild sweetness, which nicely complements the bitterness. Speaking of bitterness, it’s there, but not overpowering—sitting comfortably in the 50 IBU range. This is what makes it so drinkable.
The malt backbone is light but present, giving the beer a smooth body and just enough sweetness to prevent the hops from dominating too much. There’s a crisp, dry finish that leaves you wanting another sip.
What Stands Out
What really shines about Firestone Walker’s California IPA is its drinkability. At 6.2% ABV, it’s got enough punch to satisfy IPA lovers, but it’s also smooth enough to be a go-to option for a casual day of drinking. The hop profile is bold, but it’s not going to wreck your palate like some of the more intense IPAs out there.
The Slight Drawbacks
While the California IPA is delicious, it might feel a bit too restrained for those who are used to more hop-forward, higher ABV IPAs. Some might find it a little too safe compared to the more experimental brews on the market. If you’re someone who likes big, bold flavors, this might not completely wow you, but it’s perfect for those who want a balanced, classic IPA.
Rating
- Aroma: 8/10
- Flavor: 8.5/10
- Mouthfeel: 7.5/10
- Drinkability: 9/10
- Overall: 8/10
Final Thoughts
Firestone Walker California IPA is a solid example of a well-made West Coast IPA. It’s crisp, clean, and incredibly drinkable. While it doesn’t push boundaries, it excels in being an approachable, everyday kind of IPA. Perfect for a BBQ, hanging out with friends, or when you just want a beer that hits the spot without being too over-the-top. Definitely worth grabbing a six-pack!
If you’ve had a California IPA, tell us what you thought about it in the comments below.
Leave a Reply