Ballast Point Pin Ipa

Pin IPA is a six-pack of canned India pale ale, and the details on file place it in the American IPA family, which sets clear expectations. Styles like this usually lead with resinous pine, grapefruit peel and tropical citrus from American hops, backed by a lean, lightly bready malt base that keeps the sweetness restrained. Expect a firm but not punishing bitterness, typically in the 50 to 70 IBU range for the style, and an ABV that often falls between 6 and 7 percent. Check the can for the exact figures, since they aren't listed here. Because the beer comes in cans, it is protected from light and oxygen, which matters for a hop-forward style whose aroma fades with time and warmth. Buy it fresh, keep it cold, and drink it within a few months of the packaging date printed on the can. Hop character in IPAs peaks early and flattens into a more papery, caramel-heavy profile as it ages. Serve it at about 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). Straight from a very cold fridge the aroma is muted, so give the can a few minutes on the counter before pouring. A tulip or a shaped IPA glass concentrates the hop aromatics, while a standard pint glass or nonic works well if you want an easy-drinking pour. Pouring into a glass rather than drinking from the can lets the citrus and pine come through and releases some carbonation, which softens the finish. The bitterness and carbonation cut through fat and spice, so the beer suits food that can stand up to it. Grilled sausages, smash burgers with sharp cheddar, fried chicken, carnitas tacos and Thai or Indian curries with moderate heat all pair naturally. Citrus-forward hops also echo well with slaw, grilled pineapple and char-grilled vegetables. Sweet desserts tend to clash, though a carrot cake or a sharp aged cheese can work.