Brewery: SweetWater Brewing Company (Atlanta, Georgia)
Style: Double Hazy IPA
ABV: 9.0%
IBUs: 24
Availability: Limited release
SweetWater Brewing Company, based in Atlanta, Georgia, is known for its bold, hop-forward beers and its affinity for cannabis inspired flavors. Their G13 Dank Double Hazy IPA is part of their 420 Strain series, which aims to replicate the aromatic experience of cannabis using natural terpenes and bold hop combinations. This beer builds on the legacy of their original 420 Strain G13 IPA, amplifying the hazy, juicy, and dank elements while boosting the ABV to a hefty 9.0%.
Appearance (4.5/5)
This beer pours a hazy golden-orange, almost opaque, with a frothy white head that leaves a sticky lacing on the glass. The visual appeal is exactly what you’d expect from a well crafted New England style IPA…thick, cloudy, and inviting.
Aroma (4/5)
The nose is intensely dank, true to its name. The G13 cannabis strain influence is unmistakable, offering notes of earthy pine, resin, and herbal funk. Beneath the dankness, bursts of citrus, mango, and tropical fruits emerge, blending with hints of fresh grass and spice. The aroma is intriguing and bold, though it might be polarizing for those unfamiliar with cannabis inspired beers.
Taste (4.5/5)
The first sip delivers a wave of juicy citrus and tropical fruit flavors, with orange, pineapple, and mango leading the charge. The resinous dankness follows closely behind, bringing in piney bitterness and an herbal, almost skunky undertone. SweetWater balances this with a smooth malt backbone, keeping the beer from feeling too abrasive.
Despite its high ABV, the alcohol is well hidden, with just a slight warmth on the finish. The bitterness is present but not overwhelming, and the interplay between fruitiness and dankness is well executed.
Mouthfeel (4/5)
This beer is soft and pillowy, with a medium-full body and a silky smooth texture, thanks to the use of oats and wheat. The carbonation is moderate, keeping the beer refreshing without being overly effervescent. The finish is slightly dry, leaving behind a lingering mix of juicy hops and herbal dankness.
Overall Impression (4.5/5)
SweetWater’s G13 Dank Double Hazy IPA is an impressive and unique take on the New England-style DIPA. The blend of tropical fruit juiciness and cannabis-like dankness creates an experience that’s both bold and enjoyable. While it might not be for everyone (especially those who aren’t fans of the earthy, resinous flavors associated with cannabis) the balance between hops, malt, and terpenes is well crafted.
For fans of hazy IPAs, dank beers, and experimental brewing, this is definitely worth a try. It’s potent but smooth, dank but juicy, and overall, a well made beer that showcases SweetWater’s creativity.
Final Rating – 4.5/5
If you’ve tried SweetWater’s G13 Dank Double Hazy IPA, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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