New Grist IPA

New Grist IPA by Lakefront Brewery is being evaluated as an Alternative Grain Beer (Category 31A) from the 2021 BJCP Style Guidelines.

New Grist IPA features a deep straw color with a moderate haze. The white head leaves a brief stand of fine bubbles on the beer, dissipating quickly. The aroma greets you with blast of citrus hops, primarily lemon zest and grapefruit that are fresh and bright. The hop character remains the prominent force as the beer continues to open up, but a light graininess from the gluten-free malt wafts in to provide balance.

The flavor follows with a welcome citrusy slap that will satisfy even the most demanding of hop heads. Fresh lemon zest and a slice of grapefruit is the dominant character, with the grapefruit eventually taking center stage. The moderately high hop bitterness steps in and lingers into the dry finish, remaining smooth throughout. A light grainy character develops behind the hops to offer a welcome balance. The medium body and moderate carbonation offers structure to this beer.

This is a very enjoyable gluten-free IPA that features a prominent fresh and bright hop character with just enough of a malt backbone to balance it out. Even if you are not gluten-intolerant you should give this one a taste, as you may just discover your new hoppy obsession.