Lagunitas Maximus

Lagunitas Maximus comes as a six-pack of cans and sits in the strong, hop-forward end of the IPA family. Maximus is generally categorized as an imperial (double) IPA, a style that usually runs well above standard IPA strength, commonly in the 7.5 to 9 percent ABV range, with bitterness measured in the 70s to 90s IBU. Check the can for this batch's exact ABV, since the figure isn't listed here. Expect a profile typical of the style: a big resinous, piney and citrus-peel hop character, often with grapefruit, orange marmalade or tropical fruit notes, sitting over a firm caramel-tinged malt backbone that keeps the alcohol and hop load in balance. The finish in beers like this tends to be long and bitter, with a slightly sticky, malty sweetness underneath rather than a dry snap. Because the hop oils are the point, this style is best drunk fresh, so check the packaging date on the cans and favor the most recent. Serve it cool rather than ice cold, around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C). Straight from a very cold refrigerator the bitterness reads harsh and the aroma stays muted, so give a can ten minutes or so on the counter. A tulip glass or a shaped IPA glass is the best choice, since the narrowing top concentrates hop aromatics. A standard pint glass works fine as well. Pour with some vigor to build a head and release the aroma. At the table, strong hop bitterness cuts through rich, fatty food. Try it with a bacon cheeseburger, spicy buffalo wings, carnitas tacos with a bit of heat, or sharp aged cheddar. Carrot cake, with its sweetness and cream cheese frosting, is a good dessert match, since the caramel malt and orange-like hop notes pick up the spice and fruit.