Alright, let’s talk about the New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Juice Force IPA, a beer that really packs a punch—both in flavor and ABV. First off, Juice Force is one of those IPAs that immediately catches your eye with its playful, colorful branding. But, as we all know, it’s what’s inside the can that really matters, and in this case, it’s a tropical explosion.
First Impressions
Cracking open a can, you’re immediately hit with big, fruity aromas. It’s like someone turned up the volume on the juiciest fruit salad you’ve ever smelled. Pineapple, mango, orange—it’s all there, along with a little hint of passion fruit. If you’re into fruit-forward beers, this will make you want to dive right in.
Pouring it out, you get a hazy, golden-orange brew with a moderate, fluffy head. Visually, it’s inviting, almost daring you to take that first sip.
Tasting Notes
As soon as it hits your palate, Juice Force does not hold back. This is a full-throttle, juice bomb. The tropical flavors—especially the orange and pineapple—are front and center. It’s sweet, but not cloying, and there’s this underlying citrusy brightness that keeps things lively. You can also pick up a bit of guava and papaya in there if you’re paying close attention.
The bitterness is definitely dialed down compared to your typical IPA, which makes this dangerously drinkable given its hefty 9.5% ABV. Speaking of that ABV, Juice Force is sneakily smooth. It’s a bit on the thicker side, but the mouthfeel is creamy, not syrupy, which makes it surprisingly refreshing for such a strong beer.
Pros
- Big, bold flavors: If you love juicy, tropical IPAs, this is your jam. The flavor profile is vibrant and fun.
- Highly drinkable: Despite the high alcohol content, it goes down easily. Almost too easily!
- Well-balanced sweetness: The fruitiness is sweet without being over the top, and there’s just enough bitterness to keep things interesting.
Cons
- High ABV: This could be a pro or a con depending on your preferences. At 9.5%, this beer will sneak up on you fast if you’re not careful. One or two and you might be feeling it more than expected.
- Lack of bitterness for hop heads: If you’re someone who prefers your IPAs super bitter, this might not scratch that itch. Juice Force leans more into the tropical, fruity side of the IPA spectrum, and the bitterness is relatively subdued.
- A little heavy for some: While it’s smooth, the body is definitely on the thicker side, which might make it a bit much for those looking for something lighter or more crushable.
Final Verdict
New Belgium’s Voodoo Ranger Juice Force IPA is a flavor-packed adventure. It’s juicy, tropical, and hits all the right notes if you’re into sweeter, fruit-forward beers. However, that high ABV makes it a sipper rather than a session beer, and it might be a bit much for traditional hop heads who crave bitterness.
Rating: 8.5/10
If you’re a fan of hazy IPAs or fruit-driven brews, Juice Force is a solid choice that brings the flavor without overwhelming your palate—just be ready for the punch it packs!
If you’ve tried Voodoo Ranger Juice Force, please leave us your thoughts in the comments section below.
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