New Belgium Brewing Citradelic
What the brewers say
“Citradelic’s namesake hops and fruit combine to jam with visions of additional hops like citrusy Mandarina Bavaria, tropical Azzaca, and fruity Galaxy for a colorful explosion that’s grounded by just a touch of malty sweetness. Bored by the status quo? Expand your palate with a pour of Citradelic.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Major hit of fresh tangerine and tropical fruit esters, with an almost oily character. Some spicy tropical fruit hops underneath, but you have to look for them. Light malt, with some cracker and sweetness in the background, but not much else is getting past the citrus.”
Flavor: “The first impression is of juicy tangerine—citrus is everywhere throughout, including the citrus rind on the finish, but the citrus is watered down. Mild tropical hops, possibly Citra, with some coconut and pineapple notes, and balancing bitterness. The mouthfeel is oily and flat, with not enough carbonation, and mineral notes in the aftertaste.”
Overall: “The beer needs more body, more snap to it. The tangerine is great and is clean, juicy, and fresh. However, it needs backup: more mouthfeel, more carbonation, more hops for backbone. It’s an easy-drinking beer, but felt more like drinking fruit punch.”
