Judge's Review: 75 Rating - Crushin' It by Cape May Brewing Co.

Crushin' It by Cape May Brewing Co. is a self-described Orange India Pale Ale and was judged as a Fruit Beer (BJCP sub-style 29A). In the glass it formed a very thin white head without much retention atop a hazy deep orange brew. The aroma was dominated by orange juice notes followed by lesser base malt and indistinct hoppy ones. The flavor profile followed that of the aroma. The orange flavors overwhelmed the taste of the base beer, leaving the impression of drinking a “hard orange juice” rather than a fruited IPA.

The mouthfeel featured medium body and carbonation, moderate alcohol warmth, and slight astringency. This beer will appeal to those who love oranges, but the overpowering influence of that flavor results in a one-dimensional beer that lacks any defining IPA characteristics.