Goose Island Ipa

Goose Island IPA is a six-pack of an American-style India Pale Ale, the category defined by assertive hop character layered over a lean malt backbone. The details supplied for this listing don't include an ABV or IBU figure, so what follows describes what the style typically delivers rather than a measured profile. Expect a clearly hoppy nose with citrus, pine and sometimes stone-fruit or floral notes, a medium body with enough caramel-leaning malt to support the hops, and a bitterness that lingers without turning harsh. Most examples of the style fall in the 5.5 to 7 percent ABV range, so it drinks fuller than a standard lager. The bitterness and resin character are what shape the food pairings. IPAs cut through fat and grease well, which makes them a natural match for burgers, fried chicken, wings and loaded fries. Spice is the other strong suit: the hop bitterness and carbonation handle Thai curries, jerk seasoning, carnitas tacos and spicy sausage without being flattened by them. Sharp aged cheddar, blue cheese and smoked Gouda hold their own against the hops, while a carrot cake or other spiced dessert picks up the beer's citrus side. Very delicate dishes, such as plain white fish or mild salads, tend to be overpowered. Serve it cold but not frozen, ideally around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C), which is a few degrees warmer than a pale lager. Straight from a refrigerator at 38°F the hop aromatics are muted, so letting a bottle sit out for ten minutes or so brings the citrus and pine forward. A standard pint glass or a tulip-shaped IPA glass works well; the tulip's curved bowl and narrower rim concentrate the hop aroma and support the foam head. Pour with a bit of vigor into a clean glass so the carbonation releases the volatile hop oils, and drink it reasonably fresh, since hop aroma in IPAs fades over months, not years.