Mast Landing A Beer Named Duck

A Beer Named Duck is a New England IPA from Mast Landing in Maine, listed at 6.0% ABV and 40 IBU. That bitterness figure is moderate for an IPA, and in the New England style it tends to sit well behind the hop aroma rather than driving the flavor. Expect a hazy, juicy profile led by tropical and citrus hop character, with a soft, rounded body and a low, smooth bitterness on the finish. The 6.0% strength keeps it in sessionable-to-standard IPA territory, so the soft mouthfeel typical of the style comes without much perceived heat. Styles like this usually rely on oat or wheat in the grist and fruity yeast character to build that pillowy texture, which is why a bitterness of 40 reads gentler than the number suggests. The best way to enjoy the hop aroma is to drink it fresh, since NEIPAs fade faster than most other beer styles. Serve it cold but not ice-cold, around 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). Straight from a very cold fridge, the fruit aromatics stay muted; a few minutes in the glass lets the hops open up. A tulip or an IPA-specific glass with a tapered rim concentrates the aroma, and a standard shaker pint works fine if that is what you have. Pour with some vigor to release the volatile hop oils, and leave the glass uncovered to keep the haze and carbonation lively. For food, the citrusy hop profile and low bitterness suit spicy dishes such as Thai curries, jerk chicken, or fish tacos with a lime-based salsa. It also works with sharp cheddar, burgers, and carrot-based or coconut-heavy dishes where the fruit notes echo the ingredients. Heavily bitter or very sweet desserts are a poorer match, as they tend to flatten the hop flavor.