Lord Hobo Vagabond Ipa

Lord Hobo Vagabond IPA is a Massachusetts-made India pale ale sold as a four-pack of cans. The name suggests a flagship-style IPA rather than a double or session variant, but no ABV or IBU is listed here, so check the can for exact figures. IPAs of this kind usually lead with hop aroma, often citrus, pine or tropical fruit, over a restrained malt backbone. Expect bitterness that is present but not harsh, ending fairly dry. Serve it cold, around 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). Straight from a very cold fridge it will mute the hop aromatics, so give it a few minutes out of the cooler. A tulip or shaker pint glass is the usual choice, and a standard IPA glass works well too. Pouring into a glass rather than drinking from the can releases the hop aroma, which is much of the appeal of the style. For food, the carbonation and bitterness of an IPA cut through fat and spice. Good matches include burgers, fried chicken, tacos al pastor, wings, sharp cheddar and curries. Spicy dishes pair better with moderately hopped IPAs than with very bitter ones, because strong bitterness can amplify heat. Cans block light and keep oxygen out, which protects hop flavor, so drink this fresh and keep it refrigerated.