Piney River Brewing, based in Bucyrus, Missouri, has garnered a loyal following for its dedication to crafting exceptional beers inspired by the Ozarks’ rugged beauty and charm. Housed in a restored 1940s barn, the brewery exemplifies the small town, independent craft beer ethos. Among their lineup, the Missouri Mule IPA stands out as a flagship offering, drawing on both local pride and hop-forward craftsmanship.
Appearance
Missouri Mule IPA pours a golden-amber hue with a slight haze, crowned by a thick, frothy white head that lingers. The carbonation is lively, creating a visually appealing beer with steady effervescence. The presentation is classic for the style, inviting with its vibrant color and well formed head retention.
Aroma
The nose is an immediate burst of citrus and pine, dominated by grapefruit, orange peel, and resinous pine needles. Hints of tropical fruit, such as mango and passion fruit, emerge as the beer warms, balanced by a subtle malt sweetness. The aroma strikes a pleasing balance between bright hops and earthy undertones, a hallmark of a well executed IPA.
Flavor
Missouri Mule delivers a robust hop profile, showcasing flavors of citrus, pine, and herbal bitterness. Grapefruit zest and orange dominate the forefront, with pine and floral notes adding depth. The malt backbone is light yet supportive, offering a faint caramel sweetness that tempers the bitterness without overshadowing the hops. The finish is dry and crisp, leaving a lingering bitterness.
Mouthfeel
Missouri Mule is medium-bodied with moderate carbonation. The beer has a refreshing, slightly resinous texture that coats the palate without feeling heavy. It’s drinkable yet assertive, a combination that makes it suitable for both hop enthusiasts and those newer to the IPA style.
Unique Qualities
One of the most interesting aspects of this beer is its local inspiration. The “Missouri Mule” pays homage to the state animal of Missouri, tying the beer to its regional roots. Piney River Brewing also demonstrates a commitment to sustainability and community, packaging all their beers in cans to promote eco-friendly practices. This dedication adds a layer of charm to the drinking experience, making the brewery’s offerings feel personal and meaningful.
Critique
While Missouri Mule IPA is undeniably a solid, well-balanced beer, its flavor profile doesn’t break much new ground in the IPA category. Fans of bold, experimental flavors might find it more traditional than adventurous. Additionally, the bitterness may lean slightly too aggressive for those accustomed to softer, hazier IPAs.
Overall Impression
Missouri Mule IPA is a strong representation of a classic American IPA, delivering all the hallmarks of the style with a focus on freshness and regional pride. Its combination of citrus and pine flavors, supported by a clean malt base, makes it a reliable choice for IPA enthusiasts.
Ratings
- Appearance – 4.5/5
- Aroma – 4.5/5
- Flavor – 4.0/5
- Mouthfeel – 4.0/5
- Overall – 4.25/5
Missouri Mule IPA is a testament to Piney River Brewing’s dedication to creating high quality craft beers that celebrate the Ozarks. It’s a beer that pairs perfectly with outdoor adventures or a laid back evening at home, showcasing why Piney River has become a cherished part of Missouri’s craft beer scene.
If you’ve tried Piney River’s Missouri Mule IPA, please leave your thoughts about it in the comments below.
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