Lagunitas Hazy Ipna

Lagunitas Hazy IPNA is a hazy India pale ale-style beer sold here in a six-pack of cans, and the "IPNA" in the name signals a non-alcoholic take on the style. The product details don't list an ABV or IBU, so treat the figures below as what the style typically delivers rather than measured specs for this can. Hazy IPAs generally pour a cloudy, pale gold to straw color with a soft, full-bodied feel and very little perceived bitterness. Expect aroma and flavor led by tropical and citrus fruit such as mango, pineapple, orange and grapefruit, supported by a gentle, bready malt base. In non-alcoholic versions, the hop character carries most of the interest, so the juicy fruit notes tend to sit forward while the finish stays short and lightly resinous. Serve it cold, around 38 to 45°F (3 to 7°C). Colder than that mutes the hop aromatics, and much warmer can make a low-alcohol beer taste sweet and flat. Pour it into a glass rather than drinking from the can. A tulip, a shaped IPA glass or a standard pint will do, and each lets the aromatics collect and the haze show. A fairly vigorous pour releases the hop oils and builds a foam head, and leaving the last bit of yeast and hop sediment in the can is a matter of taste. The citrus and tropical profile suits food with heat, salt or fat. Fish tacos with lime, Thai green curry, spicy chicken wings, carnitas and pad thai all work, since the fruity hops soften chile heat and the carbonation cuts through richness. For lighter dishes, try it with ceviche, grilled shrimp, or a salad with citrus dressing and avocado. Sharp cheddar and tangy goat cheese also hold up well against the hop flavor, as do burgers and sharp-flavored sandwiches. Because the cans are sold as a six-pack, it's an easy match for a long grilled meal or a weeknight dinner where you want hop flavor without alcohol. Keep the cans refrigerated and drink them fresh, as hazy styles are best within a few months of packaging and lose their bright hop aroma with age.