Why Happenstence Trailblazing Hazy IPA Stands Out Among Craft Beers
Howdy Happenstence Community! Mike and I are back with another exciting beer review, and this time we’re diving into the vibrant world of Hazy IPAs. Today, we’re putting the spotlight on our very own Happenstence Trailblazing Hazy IPA. This brew is a crowd favorite, and we couldn’t wait to share our thoughts with you all.
So, grab a seat, pour yourself a glass, and join us on this flavor journey!
About the (New England) Hazy IPA:
The Hazy IPA stands out due to its unique brewing process, particularly the use of cold side hopping and dry hopping. Conversely, most beers are brewed with hops added during the boil (hot side), which brings out higher IBUs in the final product. Cold side hopping, which involves adding hops during fermentation, extracts delicate hop oils that impart intense tropical fruit aromas and flavors without excessive bitterness. Dry hopping, done post-fermentation, maximizes hop aroma and contributes to the beer's characteristic haze. These techniques suspend hop particles (proteins) in the liquid, resulting in a beautifully cloudy appearance and a burst of fresh, vibrant scents and flavors.
Here is a list of hops commonly used in the Hazy IPA.
Our Hazy IPA before it got drank...
The important thing to remember is when attempting to achieve a beer style like a Hazy IPA, your brewing process must be near perfect to avoid any flaws in the final product! Here is a breakdown of all essential hop oils:
First Impressions:
From the moment we poured the Trailblazing Hazy IPA into our glasses, we were captivated by its appearance. The beer boasts a beautiful, hazy golden color that’s almost mesmerizing. It has a thick, tight bubbles on the head, with foam that clings to the glass. The aroma hits you first – a tantalizing blend of tropical fruits, citrus, and a hint of pine. It’s inviting and promises a flavor-packed punch, without the lingering bite (astringency). One of my favorite beers we've made so far!
Taste and Mouthfeel:
Taking the first sip, we were immediately struck by the beer’s smooth and creamy mouthfeel. The Trailblazing Hazy IPA is medium-bodied with just the right amount of carbonation, making it incredibly drinkable. The flavor profile is where this beer truly shines. It’s a harmonious sweet blend of juicy tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and passion fruit, balanced with citrus notes of orange and grapefruit. There’s a subtle bitterness that rounds out the sweetness, making each sip refreshing and satisfying. This is a beer where your chemistry really matters, I tweaked it by adding more sulfates and calcium to bring out the color and hop flavors!
Mikey Meter:
In our recent video on YouTube, Mike reviewed the Hazy IPA again. This time, he gave it the highest ever score. That's right, he scored it higher than the recent, Munich Helles that we reviewed. That being because Hazy IPAs are his favorite style, he has PLENTY of experience reviewing them. You can watch the video below to learn why he gave it his score:
Pairing Suggestions:
We found that the Trailblazing Hazy IPA pairs exceptionally well with a variety of foods. Here are some of our top pairing recommendations:
- Spicy or Fish Tacos: The tropical fruit notes complement the heat, while the beer’s bitterness cuts through the spice.
- Grilled Chicken: The citrus flavors enhance the savory, smoky taste of grilled meats.
- Cheese Platter: Pair with mild cheeses like brie or gouda to balance the beer’s robust flavor profile.
Final Thoughts:
The Happenstence Trailblazing Hazy IPA is a testament to our commitment to crafting unique and flavorful beers. It’s a perfect choice for a summer afternoon, a barbecue with friends, or just a quiet evening on the porch. Mike and I were thoroughly impressed with this brew, and we’re confident you will be too. If you’re a fan of Hazy IPAs, this one is a must-try.
We’d love to hear your thoughts on the Trailblazing Hazy IPA! Drop us a comment below or share your experiences on our social media channels. Cheers to great beers and even better company!
Below is a list of my favorite Hazy IPAs that are locally made in Austin, Texas!
Local Hazy IPAs to Try:
- Zilker Brewing - Heavenly Daze IPA (pictured above)
- Pinthouse Pizza - Electric Jellyfish
- Meanwhile Brewing - Tender Robot
- Twisted X Brewing - McConauhaze
Visit Happenstence to explore our full range of brews and stay tuned for more reviews coming your way.