JOGR by Reformation Brewery is being evaluated as an International Pale Lager (2015 BJCP Category 2A). It pours a light amber color that is relatively clear except for the fine, suspended particulates that detract. An ivory, moderately-tall head is mousse-like.
New world hops were definitely used as the nose is dominated by moderately-high papaya, passion fruit, and overripe mango. Restrained doughy malt help to support the hops. Cleanly fermented.
A similar hop presentation appears in the flavor with tropical notes dominating. The doughy malt also has elements of honey-like caramel malt but the balance is tilted towards hops with middle of the road bitterness. The bitterness lingers after a crisp finish with a green, raw hop character that detracts.
JOGR is well-made beer that’s sure to delight many a beer drinker. But with a number of excellent IPLs already on the market, it has tough competition to measure up to. And with the raw hop bitterness and unfiltered appearance, it doesn’t quite hold up to those best of class examples.