Sam Adams Just The Haze

Just The Haze is a non-alcoholic hazy IPA from Samuel Adams, and the name tells you what it's aiming for: the soft, cloudy, juicy profile of New England-style IPA without the alcohol. The listing doesn't give an IBU figure or a hop list, so the notes below describe what non-alcoholic hazy IPAs typically deliver, not measured specs for this can. In styles like this, expect a cloudy, pale-gold to straw pour and an aroma led by citrus peel, tropical fruit and a little resin from late-addition hops. Hazy IPAs are built to be low in perceived bitterness and fuller in the mouth than clear, bitter West Coast styles. Non-alcoholic versions usually get that body from oats or wheat in the grist, and the softness helps make up for the missing alcohol. The finish tends to be short and juicy, with only a light bitter edge. Some dealcoholized beers also carry a faint worty or bready note under the hops, and the hop-forward style tends to cover it. Serve it cold, about 38 to 45°F (3 to 7°C). Straight from the fridge works, but let it sit a couple of minutes if the aroma seems muted, since hop oils show better as the beer warms slightly. A tulip or a stemmed IPA glass is the best choice. The narrowing top holds the citrus and tropical aromatics, and the cloudy body shows well through clear glass. A standard shaker pint is fine if that's what you have. Pour with some vigor so the head forms, then leave the last bit of yeast and haze in the can if it settles. For food, match the juicy hops with dishes that have some spice or fat. Fish tacos with lime, chicken tikka, Thai green curry, burgers with sharp cheddar and carnitas all stand up to the hop character without being overwhelmed. Fruit-forward hops also suit fresh salsa, ceviche and citrus-dressed slaws. For dessert, carrot cake or a simple lemon bar picks up the fruit notes without competing with them. Because the bitterness is expected to be gentle, very hot dishes will overwhelm it, so keep the heat moderate.