Castle Island Ipa

Castle Island IPA is an India pale ale from Massachusetts, sold in a 19.2 oz can. That size is 568 ml, the imperial pint, so one can fills a standard pint glass with a little room for foam. No ABV or IBU is listed for this listing, so what follows describes how American IPAs typically behave rather than a measured profile for this beer. Expect the usual American IPA balance: citrus, pine and resin from the hops over a light malt backbone, with a bitterness that lingers on the finish. Many New England breweries lean toward softer, juicier hop character, so grapefruit, orange peel or tropical fruit notes would not be surprising. The can format suits hop-forward beers, since it blocks light and limits oxygen. Drink it fresh, as IPA hop aroma fades noticeably within a couple of months of packaging. Serve it cold but not frozen, around 45 to 50°F, which keeps the hop oils expressive without muting them. A standard pint glass works well, as does a tulip or shaker pint. Pour with some vigor to release aromatics and build a head. The carbonation and bitterness cut through fat and spice, so this style pairs well with burgers, fried chicken, carnitas, buffalo wings, Thai or Indian curries, and sharp cheddar. A tall can also fits a shared pizza or a plate of fish tacos.