Harpoon Brewery - Juicer

This hazy IPA from Harpoon uses a relatively new technique called “dip hopping” in which (in a very small nutshell) hops are added to cooled wort prior to fermentation, and the process can dramatically increase perceived fruity and tropical hop expression while limiting more resinous and piney notes. Pouring a hazy golden hue with a persistent head of off-white foam, Juicer presents a good appearance and a good aroma. Look for lots of luscious tropical fruit notes to take center stage on the nose, evoking pineapple, mango, and passion fruit, bolstered by soft citrus tones and touches of melon and stone fruit. The story continues on the palate where we get layers and layers of juicy tropical and citrus notes. Juicer certainly lives up to its name as well as the expectations we have for a New England IPA. Hop bitterness comes through moderately firm, combining with a bit higher of an ABV than many other similarly-styled hazy IPAs, providing plenty of bite to dry out the moderate dose of residual sweetness from the rather robust yet pillowy malt contribution. For pairing options, try grilled pork or chicken with a fruity BBQ sauce (perhaps with a dose of citrus or pineapple juice), a burger topped with sharp cheddar and caramelized onions, teriyaki glazed chicken breast with grilled pineapple, or spicy buffalo wings. Cheers!

Harpoon Brewery was founded in 1986, quite early in the US microbrew renaissance. Before starting the brewery, the founding team of Dan Kenary and Rich Doyle traveled throughout Europe in search of various beer and brewery styles upon which they would model their own (“product research” we think they called it). Upon returning, they partnered with George Ligeti and hired brewer Russ Heissner, and by 1987 their first beer was sold as the brewery debuted on the Boston waterfront.

Harpoon has always been focused on positively impacting their local community. This is an important component of the brewery and pub lifestyle that the founders witnessed while experiencing European traditions abroad. As they’ve stated on their website, “We learned to appreciate how much local brewers meant to their communities. They were not just manufacturers of a product; they were part of the social fabric. We asked each other, ‘Why not do that in New England?’” The result of this initial desire has won them overwhelming approval from the locals and beyond. In fact, in 2000 they purchased a second brewery in Windsor, Vermont, to keep up with demand. In 2014, Harpoon became an employee-owned company with the introduction of an employee stock ownership plan, a major point of pride for the entire organization. Way to go, guys! For more information about the brewery or scheduled tours, visit their website at www.harpoonbrewery.com.