New Belgium Brewing Ranger
What the brewers say
This clear amber beauty bursts with an abundance of hops: Cascade (citrus), Chinook (floral/citrus), and Simcoe (fruity) lead off the beer, with Cascade added again for an intense dry hop flavor. Brewed with pale and dark caramel malts that harmonize the hop flavor from start to finish, Ranger is a sessionable splendor for all you hopinistas.
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Grapefruit and citrus with a bit of pine and a touch of malt sweetness.” One judge noted, “The hop aroma was not as complex as some other examples.”
Flavor: “Hop forward with more citrus/grapefruit notes, typical piney and resinous notes, and a slight dry grassiness. The assertive hop flavors leave little room for the light, biscuity malt profile. It finishes bitter and dry, helping to accentuate the hop flavor.”
Overall: “Enjoyable, sessionable (for IPA) beer with a clean finish and sweet grapefruit notes. In a crowded style category, it may get lost but still very tasty and perfect for those seeking a hop-forward but not over-the-top IPA.”
