Zero Gravity Cone Head Hazyipa

Cone Head Hazyipa is a hazy India pale ale from Massachusetts, a style built around hop aroma and a soft texture rather than sharp bitterness. Expect a cloudy, golden-to-orange pour and a nose led by tropical and citrus fruit. Hazy IPAs like this typically show notes of mango, pineapple, orange peel and stone fruit, sometimes with a light resinous or grassy edge. The body tends to be full and pillowy, with low perceived bitterness for an IPA and a finish that is juicy rather than dry. No ABV or IBU is listed for this bottle, but beers in this category usually sit in the mid-to-upper range for alcohol, so it is worth checking the label. Serve it cold but not ice-cold, around 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). Over-chilling mutes the hop aroma that defines the style, and a few minutes out of the refrigerator lets the fruit come forward. A tulip or a wide-mouthed IPA glass is the best choice, because the curved bowl concentrates the aromatics while leaving room for the dense foam hazy beers tend to build. A standard shaker pint works if that is what you have, though it releases the aroma faster. Pour fairly vigorously into the glass. Hazy IPAs are usually less carbonated on the palate, and a lively pour helps lift the hop character. For food, the juicy hops and low bitterness suit dishes with heat and acidity. Fish tacos with lime, Thai green curry, chicken wings with a buffalo or jerk glaze, and carnitas all work well, as the fruit-forward hops soften the spice. Sharp cheddar, fresh goat cheese and carrot-based dishes are good matches too. It is less suited to very delicate food, such as plain white fish or light salads, where the hop intensity would overwhelm the dish. Drink it fresh, since hazy IPAs lose their hop aroma faster than most other styles.