Rating: 4.4/5
If you’re looking for a bold, hazy IPA with some serious punch, Stone’s “Fear Movie Lions” (FML) Double Hazy IPA definitely delivers. This beer doesn’t mess around—it’s got the juicy, tropical vibes you’d expect from a hazy, but with the added intensity of a double IPA. Stone is known for going big with hops, and FML is no exception, packing a solid balance of fruity flavors and bitterness. But be warned: at 8.5% ABV, this one’s a heavy hitter.
First Impressions
FML pours a cloudy, light golden color with a thick, foamy head that sticks around for a while. It looks exactly how you’d expect a hazy IPA to look—hazy, soft, and inviting. The carbonation is on point, too, giving off just the right amount of bubbles to keep things lively.
Aroma
When you take a whiff, you’re hit with a huge wave of tropical fruit—think pineapple, mango, and some passion fruit in there as well. There’s a bit of citrus (mostly orange and grapefruit), and maybe a slight hint of pine hiding in the background, just to remind you that this is still a Stone beer. The aroma is juicy and fresh, setting the stage for what’s to come.
Taste
On the first sip, FML brings that expected double IPA intensity, but it’s surprisingly smooth. You immediately get hit with juicy tropical flavors, mango and pineapple are front and center, followed by a citrus burst of orange and grapefruit. There’s a subtle sweetness from the malt that balances out the hops nicely, so while it’s definitely bitter, it’s not overwhelming.
As the beer warms up a bit, you start to pick up some of those dank, resinous notes that remind you this is a Stone brew. The bitterness creeps in at the back end, giving the finish a nice dry bite that balances out the fruity sweetness.
Mouthfeel and Finish
For a double IPA, FML has a pretty soft, velvety mouthfeel, thanks to the oats and wheat in the recipe. It’s full-bodied but not overly heavy, which makes it surprisingly easy to drink for such a big beer. The finish is dry, with a lingering bitterness and just enough sweetness to round things out. It’s the kind of beer that makes you want to take another sip right after the first.
Positives
- Huge Juicy Flavors: FML nails the hazy IPA profile with its big, tropical fruit and citrus notes. If you love juicy IPAs, this one hits all the right marks.
- Smooth for a Double IPA: Despite the 8.5% ABV, FML drinks pretty smooth. It’s full of flavor, but it doesn’t feel too heavy or boozy, which makes it dangerously easy to sip on.
- Nice Balance of Sweetness and Bitterness: Stone is known for their hop-forward beers, but FML has a great balance between the fruity sweetness and the hop bitterness. It’s not too cloying, and it’s not overly bitter, it’s just right.
Negatives
- A Bit Too Strong for Some: At 8.5% ABV, FML is definitely on the stronger side. If you’re not a fan of boozier beers or prefer something lighter, this might be a bit too much for you.
- Lacks Some Complexity: While the flavors are great, FML doesn’t evolve much as you drink it. It’s mostly tropical fruit and citrus with some bitterness at the end, but it doesn’t have a ton of depth beyond that. Still delicious, but some might find it a little one-note.
Final Thoughts
Stone FML Double Hazy IPA is a bold, juicy beer that brings everything you’d want from a double hazy IPA—big tropical flavors, a smooth mouthfeel, and just enough bitterness to keep things balanced. It’s got a punchy 8.5% ABV, but it drinks smoother than you might expect. If you’re a fan of hazy IPAs and looking for something with a little more intensity, FML is definitely worth grabbing. Just be ready for a strong, hop-forward ride.
If you’ve tried a Stone FML Double Hazy IPA, please let us know your thoughts in the comments below.
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