Medusa Zweihaal Ipa

Medusa Zweihaal IPA comes as a four-pack of cans from Massachusetts, and it sits in the India pale ale category. The listing doesn't give an ABV or IBU, so what follows describes how beers in this style usually behave rather than a measured profile. Expect a pronounced hop character: citrus and resin aromatics, possibly stone fruit or tropical notes depending on the hop bill, over a lean malt backbone that supports the hops rather than sweetening the beer. Bitterness in an IPA typically lands somewhere in the moderate-to-assertive range and is meant to be noticed on the finish. Serve it cold but not frozen, ideally around 6 to 8°C (43 to 46°F). Straight out of a very cold refrigerator, hop aroma stays muted and the bitterness reads harsher, so give a can a few minutes on the counter before opening. A tulip or a shaker-style pint glass works well; both narrow slightly toward the rim, which holds the foam and concentrates the hop aromatics. Pour into the glass instead of drinking from the can, because most of the aroma in an IPA is lost if it never leaves the aluminum. Hop-forward beers pair best with food that has enough fat, salt or spice to stand up to the bitterness. Cheeseburgers, fried chicken, carnitas tacos and buffalo wings are classic matches, since the carbonation and bitterness cut through richness and heat. Sharp cheddar, aged gouda and other firm cheeses work for the same reason, and curries with moderate spice suit the citrus side of the style. Avoid delicate dishes like plain white fish, which a hoppy beer will overpower. Because it is canned, keep the pack upright, cold and out of light and heat. IPAs are generally best enjoyed fresh, so drink it sooner rather than later.