New Belgium Brewing Company Slow Ride

**Aroma:** “Pineapple, mango, and orange with little to no malt or yeast character on the nose. A rich wave of tropical fruit hops that evoke mango, pineapple, and a bit of coconut. Solid nose promises a real beer. Light pine and resin.” **Flavor:** “Pineapples, bananas, and mangoes. Long bitterness that’s slightly harsh atop a weaker than expected malt body. As it is, the fruit flavor falls somewhat at compared to the aroma. The assertive bitterness is a bit out of balance because there’s not much malt to balance it. Bitterness dominates the finish—the earthy hops avor sticks around for a little while, but doesn’t have as much staying power.” **Overall:** “A decent attempt at making a sessionable IPA, but the overall impression is thin and one-dimensional. The lovely aroma suggests more than is delivered on the palate.”

**Aroma:** “Light floral hops aroma with an undercurrent of lemon and maybe mint. Delicate kiss of clean malt sweetness and cereal. Pine needles, a little grape- fruit, perhaps a touch of biscuit. As it warms, earthy components reminiscent of wet leaves comes into play.” **Flavor:** “Very distinctive citrus hops— lemon, tangerine, and a bit of grapefruit. There’s just enough malt sweetness with the tart citrus to evoke Lemon Heads candy before the bitterness rolls in smoothly. As the beer warms, an earthy mushroom-like character develops, which adds complexity and keeps me interested. Malt body is rather thin.” **Overall:** “Nicely balanced, although the bitter finish could be toned down just a little. Flavorful—it may be a session but it doesn’t compromise a lot. An enjoyable low-octane IPA that offers enough hops character for hopheads but remains a drinkable and well-balanced beer. Smooth and refreshing—a light, hoppy beer that would pair well with an afternoon in the hammock.”

**Aroma:** “Straightforward banana aroma with light vegetal notes and a very sub- tle grainy malt. Light floral hops aroma and peach esters. Slight sweetness and phenolic with a touch of alcohol.” **Flavor:** “Sweet malt, coriander, banana, lemon esters, and clove phenolics. Floral, spicy hops character. A Great classic tripel profile that’s ester-driven, light-bodied, and effervescent. Beautiful dry finish is the perfect segue to another sip. Low candy-like sweetness as it starts to warm.” **Overall:** “Nice example of the style with coriander added. Nothing too out of the ordinary, just a good, solid, basic tripel that does what it’s supposed to. Look for a classic pairing such as moules frites or put it next to some chicken fajitas. This can handle it.”