Impression
A refreshing hop-driven pale ale showcasing fresh, juicy, fruity hop flavors and aromas. Moderate bitterness and low malt flavors only play a supporting role, preserving approachable drinkability. Deceptively soft, creamy mouthfeel gives way to a crisp, dry finish characteristic of all American IPA’s. Singularly hazy but still attractive to those who appreciate an intense hop experience.
Aroma
High to intense fresh hop aromas, emphasizing fruity notes reminiscent of tropical fruits, melons, and citrus fruits. Piney hop aromas complement the fruity character.
Appearance
Pale straw to orange in color. Quite hazy to nearly opaque–suggesting orange juice– however that might clarify as they age, leaving only faint haze. Fluffy and persistent white head, often depositing intricate lacing on the glass.
Flavor
As with aroma, medium-high to intense fresh hop flavors are in the forefront, with emphasis on tropical fruits, stone fruits, melons, and citrus fruits. Piney complement the fruity flavors, and grassy or vegetal hop character is absent. Bitterness is medium and is smooth and never sharp or harsh. Malt flavor is low and is typically fresh and grainy with low perceptible sweetness. Overall balance is bitter, but less so than standard American IPA. Finish is medium-dry, with long-lingering fruity hop flavors.
Mouthfeel
Soft, smooth mouthfeel with medium-full body and moderate carbonation. Low ratios of sulfate to chloride ions give a distinctly juicy, mouth-watering sensation, while high-protein adjuncts and suspended yeast may provide some creaminess. The finish is smooth and clean and never astringent.
Comparison
Compared to standard American IPA’s, NE-IPA’s emphasize hop flavor and aroma to the near exclusion of all else. Flavors and aromas tend to be fruity and exotic, with less focus on the piney and resinous character that may be found in standard American IPA’s. While the balance is still bitter, overall bitterness tends to be lower, and never has the sharpness of some classic American IPA’s. Malty flavors also take a secondary role with little to no caramel or toast. Yeast character is often more present than in standard American IPA, with esters complementing the fruity hop notes. Color tends to be a bit lighter, and any level of haze is acceptable, though bright clarity is not typical. Mouthfeel is softer, fuller, and creamier than other American ale styles.
