Alaskan Brewing Co. Icy Bay IPA
What the brewers say
“Alaskan Icy Bay IPA is made from glacier-fed water and a blend of Cascade, Bravo, Calypso, Summit and Apollo hops and premium two-row pale and specialty malts.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Very juicy, sweet aroma (pineapple, orange, and lemonade); hints of kiwi and grape and a bit of honey. Some mineral quality. Pilsner or pale malt sweetness comes through as well, a bit high for the category. Hops are subtle and muted, but come through as citrus and pine.”
Flavor: “Initial smack of hops bitterness and fruity flavors (lemon candy, fruit loops). Progresses quickly to a light cracker-like malt sweetness. Finishes very dry. Very light body. A slightly slick, oily finish. Hops are much more subtle than desired for the category, drinking more like a light pale ale or potentially a session IPA.”
Overall: “This beer starts out fruity and finishes dry. It’s a very light beer, but still manages to squeeze in quite a bit of flavor for its low ABV. Needs more hops punch in the flavor, aroma, and finish. Pilsner/pale malt sweetness prevails more than it should.”