Oh-J Double Ipa

Oh-J Double IPA is an imperial IPA brewed by Esplanda in Massachusetts, a style built on a heavy dose of hops over a sturdy malt backbone. The name suggests orange juice, so expect the citrus-forward side of the style: orange, tangerine, grapefruit and tropical fruit rather than a strictly resinous or piney profile. The product details don't give an ABV or IBU, but double IPAs generally sit in the 7.5 to 10 percent ABV range with firm bitterness. That bitterness is typically cushioned by a fuller body and some residual malt sweetness, which is what separates the style from a standard IPA. Aromas in this category tend to lead with fresh citrus peel and ripe fruit, with a lightly sweet, bready or caramel malt note underneath. On the palate, expect a round, slightly resinous mouthfeel, a bitterness that builds through the middle and lingers on the finish, and a warming note from the alcohol as the beer opens up. Because the hop character is the point, this style is best enjoyed fresh, so check the packaging for a canned or bottled-on date and drink it sooner rather than later. Serve it cold but not ice-cold, around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C). Fridge-straight temperatures around 38°F mute the fruit and sharpen the bitterness, while a few minutes on the counter lets the citrus aromatics come forward. A tulip glass or a wide-mouthed IPA glass is the right choice, since the curved bowl concentrates hop aroma and holds the head. A standard shaker pint works if nothing else is on hand, but it lets the aroma disperse. For food, the bitterness and citrus lean call for rich, spicy or salty dishes. Spicy buffalo wings, carnitas tacos with a squeeze of lime, Thai or Indian curries, sharp cheddar burgers and washed-rind or blue cheeses all stand up to it. Carrot cake and other spiced desserts with cream cheese frosting are an unexpected match, since the beer's fruitiness echoes the sweetness while the hops cut through the richness.