Firestone Walker’s Mind Haze IPA Review

Rating: 4.4/5

If you’re a fan of hazy IPAs, Firestone Walker’s Mind Haze IPA is definitely one to check out. It’s got all the things you expect from a solid hazy—juicy fruit flavors, a soft, pillowy body, and just enough bitterness to remind you it’s still an IPA. Firestone Walker nailed the West Coast spin on the New England style here, making it both approachable and satisfying.

First Impressions

Mind Haze pours a golden-orange haze with a thick, frothy white head that sticks around for a while. It’s got that beautiful, hazy glow that practically begs you to take a sip. Right off the bat, it looks like your classic hazy IPA, which sets the stage for the tropical fruit explosion that’s about to hit your palate.

Aroma

On the nose, this beer is packed with tropical fruit goodness. Pineapple, mango, and orange dominate, with a hint of citrus zest and a subtle piney backdrop. There’s also a little bit of sweetness, like a touch of honey or a freshly peeled tangerine. The aroma is juicy and inviting—pretty much everything you want from a hazy IPA.

Taste

Taking a sip, Mind Haze delivers on the juicy fruit promise. It’s bursting with tropical flavors—think pineapple, mango, and a bit of passion fruit. There’s a slight citrusy kick from orange and grapefruit, giving it a refreshing edge. The malt backbone is soft and slightly sweet, which complements the fruit-forward flavors perfectly.

Where this IPA really stands out is in its balance. Unlike some hazies that lean too far into sweetness, Mind Haze has a nice, clean bitterness that sneaks in at the end to keep things from getting cloying. It’s not overly bitter, but enough to remind you this is still an IPA, after all.

Mouthfeel and Finish

The mouthfeel is what you expect from a hazy—smooth and almost creamy, thanks to the oats and wheat. It’s medium-bodied but not too heavy, making it super drinkable. The carbonation is just right, keeping the beer refreshing rather than syrupy. The finish is crisp, with just a hint of that juicy sweetness lingering on your tongue.

Positives

• Juicy and Balanced: Mind Haze nails the tropical fruit flavor without being overwhelmingly sweet. The balance between the juicy notes and the subtle bitterness makes it easy to drink, and you won’t get palate fatigue after just one.
• Smooth Mouthfeel: The soft, creamy texture is perfect for this style. It makes every sip feel almost luxurious, like you’re drinking a tropical smoothie (but way better).
• Approachable for Non-IPA Fans: Even if you’re not a huge IPA lover, this one is approachable because the bitterness is mellow and the juicy flavors take center stage.

Negatives

• Could Use a Bit More Complexity: While the juicy, tropical notes are great, it doesn’t evolve much as you drink. If you’re looking for layers of complexity in an IPA, Mind Haze may come across as a bit one-dimensional.
• Not for Those Craving Hop Punch: If you’re a die-hard hophead looking for something with a stronger hop bite, Mind Haze might be too mellow for you. The bitterness is subtle, which works for the hazy style but may leave you wanting more hop intensity.

Final Thoughts

Firestone Walker’s Mind Haze IPA is a standout in the hazy IPA category, offering a beautifully balanced beer with big tropical fruit flavors, a smooth mouthfeel, and just the right amount of bitterness to keep things interesting. It’s an easy-drinker, perfect for a laid-back day or pairing with light, summery meals.

If you love hazy IPAs but don’t want something overly sweet or too heavy, Mind Haze is a great choice. While it might not have the complexity some hop lovers crave, its juicy flavors and smooth texture make it a beer you can enjoy again and again. Definitely a solid pick for those who want a well-rounded hazy that still feels refreshing.

If you’ve tried this beer, let us know what you thought about it in the comments below.