Lagunitas Max Hazicus

Max Hazicus is the hazy take on Lagunitas's Maximus double IPA, sold here as a six-pack of cans. The name points to the style: an imperial-leaning, unfiltered India pale ale. Beers in this category usually pour a cloudy golden-orange with a soft, full body from oats or wheat and a heavy dose of late-addition and dry hops. Expect a nose of tropical and citrus fruit, such as mango, grapefruit pith, and orange peel, with resinous pine behind it. Bitterness in hazy doubles tends to be restrained relative to the hop load, so the finish reads as juicy and slightly resinous rather than sharply dry. This is a strong beer by the standards of the style, and the alcohol usually shows as warmth and weight rather than sweetness. Check the can for the exact ABV before planning a session around it. Hop aroma fades quickly in this style, so drinking it fresh is the main thing. Keep the cans cold, away from light and heat, and check the packaging date on the can. Serve it well chilled but not ice-cold, around 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). Colder than that mutes the fruit, and a few minutes out of the fridge opens it up. A tulip, snifter-style IPA glass, or a standard shaker pint works well. The tulip's curved bowl concentrates the hop aromatics. Pour it with a little vigor to release the aroma, and leave the last bit of yeast haze in the can if you prefer a cleaner glass. At the table, the hop intensity stands up to spicy and fatty food. Try it with carne asada tacos, Thai or Indian curries, fried chicken, jerk-seasoned pork, or a sharp cheddar burger. Carrot cake and other spiced desserts also work, since the beer's citrus and fruit notes echo the sweetness without being overwhelmed.