Lagunitas Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ IPA Review

Rating: 4.5/5

If you’ve had your fair share of IPAs, you probably know that Lagunitas (Chicago, Illinois) consistently delivers some of the best. Their Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ IPA is no exception, offering a fun twist on the classic American IPA style. It’s got a lot going on in terms of flavor and aroma, making it a unique and enjoyable beer to sip on.

First Impressions

Pouring this beer, you immediately notice its bright golden color and slight haze, topped with a nice fluffy white head. It’s the kind of beer that looks just as good as it tastes. The carbonation is spot on, giving it a lively and fresh feel from the very start.

Aroma

The aroma hits you with a pleasant blend of fruity and floral hops. Think big notes of citrus—grapefruit, orange, and a bit of lemon zest—with a touch of pine in the background. There’s also a subtle sweetness from the malt, almost like honey or caramel, which balances things out nicely. It smells like a tropical fruit salad mixed with a pine forest, and honestly, that’s a winning combination.

Taste

The first sip is a burst of flavors, starting with that classic West Coast hop bitterness but quickly giving way to smooth, tropical sweetness. You’ll get hits of mango, pineapple, and citrus up front, followed by a lingering piney, slightly grassy bitterness on the back end. It’s hoppy but not overpoweringly bitter, making it approachable even for those who aren’t hardcore IPA fans.

The malt sweetness is there, but it doesn’t dominate—it just smooths out the bitterness enough to keep things balanced. One of the standout features of Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ is the wheat, which adds a creamy mouthfeel and just a touch of softness that you don’t typically get from traditional IPAs.

Mouthfeel and Finish

This IPA is medium-bodied with a smooth, almost silky texture. That’s where the wheat really shines, adding a softness that you don’t usually expect in a hop-forward beer. The finish is dry, with a lingering bitterness that keeps you coming back for more. It’s the kind of beer you want to savor but could easily crush a couple without even thinking about it.

Positives

• Balanced Flavor Profile: The balance between the fruity sweetness and the hoppy bitterness is really well done. It’s bold but not too aggressive, making it a great beer for IPA lovers and those who might be newer to the style.
• Smooth Mouthfeel: The wheat adds a nice twist, giving it a creaminess that’s unusual for an IPA but totally works.
• Refreshing and Drinkable: Even at 7.5% ABV, it’s surprisingly drinkable. You can enjoy one or two without feeling overwhelmed by the alcohol or bitterness.

Negatives

• Bitterness Might Be Too Much for Some: While I personally love the balance, the piney bitterness on the back end might be a bit much for people who prefer less bitter beers. If you’re not into hoppy beers, this one might not be for you.
• Lack of Complexity: As delicious as it is, some might argue that it’s a bit one-note. The tropical fruit and hop combo is fantastic, but it doesn’t evolve much as you drink it, so if you’re looking for a beer that changes and deepens with each sip, you might not get that here.

Final Thoughts

Lagunitas’ Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ IPA is a fantastic beer that offers a unique take on the IPA style, with the addition of wheat giving it a smooth, almost creamy mouthfeel. The balance of hop bitterness and fruity sweetness makes it both flavorful and approachable, even for those who aren’t die-hard IPA fans. It’s hoppy and refreshing, with just enough complexity to keep things interesting.

If you’re into hop-forward beers but want something that’s not overwhelmingly bitter or heavy, this one’s definitely worth picking up. Just be warned—at 7.5% ABV, it’s stronger than it tastes, so enjoy responsibly!

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