Lord Hobo Life

Lord Hobo Life comes as a six-pack from Massachusetts, a state whose brewers helped define the modern hop-forward, soft-bodied style of American ale. The listing doesn't give an ABV, IBU or style designation, so check the can for the exact numbers. Beers from this New England lineage usually lean on citrus, stone fruit and resinous hop aroma rather than sharp bitterness, with a rounded, slightly hazy body and a low-to-moderate finishing bite. Treat that as the expected profile rather than a measured one. If the can confirms a hazy or juicy IPA character, serve it cold but not frozen, around 38 to 45°F. Colder temperatures mute the hop aroma that this style is built around, and a beer served straight from the back of the fridge will taste thinner and more one-dimensionally bitter than it should. Pulling a can out ten minutes before pouring is usually enough to open it up. For glassware, a tulip, a shaker pint or a wide-mouthed IPA glass works well, since the shape concentrates volatile hop oils at the nose. Pour with some vigor to release aroma and build a modest head, and consider leaving the last bit of yeast and hop sediment in the can if it's an unfiltered style. On the table, expect hop-driven ales like this to pair well with fried chicken, fish tacos, carnitas, burgers and spicy dishes, where the carbonation and citrus notes cut through fat and heat. Washed-rind and sharp cheddar cheeses work too, as do curries and Thai dishes with lime and chili. Very delicate food, like plain white fish or mild salads, tends to get overwhelmed by the hops.