Boulevard Brewing’s 80-Acre Hoppy Wheat Beer is an intriguing hybrid of styles that successfully bridges the gap between a classic American wheat beer and a hop-forward pale ale. It’s an approachable brew for those who love the crisp refreshment of a wheat beer but crave the bold punch of hop aroma and flavor.
First Impressions
Right from the pour, 80-Acre grabs your attention with a glowing, hazy golden body topped by a fluffy white head that leaves a delicate lacing. It’s inviting and sets the tone for what’s to come.
Aroma
The nose offers a delightful mix of citrus and floral hop notes intertwined with subtle hints of fresh-baked bread and grainy sweetness from the wheat. Grapefruit, lemon zest, and a touch of pine are the standout aromas here. It’s vibrant and makes you eager for that first sip.
Flavor Profile
On the palate, 80-Acre Wheat delivers a well balanced combination of wheat beer smoothness and pale ale brightness. The wheat base provides a light, slightly creamy mouthfeel with mild sweetness and a touch of cereal character. This is perfectly contrasted by a burst of citrus-forward hops…grapefruit, orange peel, and a whisper of tropical fruit, followed by a pleasantly dry finish.
What makes it unique is the restrained bitterness. At 20 IBUs, the hops shine without overpowering the wheat’s soft character, making it an easy drinker for both hop heads and wheat beer fans.
Mouthfeel
The carbonation is spot on, giving it a crisp and effervescent quality without being overly fizzy. It feels refreshing and light, making it a great choice for warm afternoons or casual get togethers.
The Verdict
While 80-Acre Wheat is undeniably enjoyable, it may not fully satisfy hardcore IPA lovers who expect more aggressive bitterness or complex hop layers. Similarly, traditional wheat beer purists might find the hop-forward character a bit unconventional. That said, this beer is a fantastic middle ground…perfect for introducing wheat beer fans to hops or offering pale ale drinkers something lighter and smoother.
Ratings
Appearance: 4.5/5 – Gorgeous golden hue and excellent head retention.
Aroma: 4/5 – Bright and inviting, though hop-forwardness slightly overshadows the wheat.
Flavor: 4.5/5 – A beautifully balanced interplay of wheat sweetness and citrusy hops.
Mouthfeel: 4/5 – Light and crisp, with just the right carbonation.
Overall: 4.25/5 – A creative and accessible beer that’s worth trying, especially if you’re looking for a refreshing twist on familiar styles.
Final Thoughts
Boulevard Brewing’s 80-Acre Hoppy Wheat Beer is a winner for anyone seeking a beer that’s flavorful yet easygoing. It’s versatile enough for a backyard barbecue, a post hike refreshment, or a lazy afternoon on the patio. If you enjoy exploring hybrids that blur style boundaries, this one deserves a spot in your fridge.
If you’ve tried Boulevard’s 80-Acre please let us know what you thought about it in the comments section below.
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