Judge’s Review: 90 Rating - Mandarina IPA by Highland Brewing Co.

Mandarina IPA by Highland Brewing Co. is being evaluated as a Fruit Beer  (Category 29A) from the 2015 BJCP guidelines with a base style of American IPA.

This beer poured golden yellow with a foamy thick white head that disappeared slightly quicker than expected. The clarity was brilliant allowing you to see its effervescent nature.

A low papery aroma note gave way to a light vanilla and orange character that becomes sweet and slightly overripe. The vanilla note intersects again and becomes sherbet-like. There’s a hint of orange creamsicle aroma that seems interesting and awoke the senses. A low malty aroma of biscuit in nature became more apparent as the beer warmed up in the glass.    

The flavor brought forth a moderate amount of mandarin orange flavor with a balanced grainy malt character. The hops are citrusy and not aggressive. Fruity and refreshing, the finish is very dry with a citrus rind aftertaste, not juicy.

The body is medium-light with a moderately high amount of carbonation. No warmth here, but the creaminess is light and pleasant. No astringency noted.

Overall, Mandarina IPA is a refreshing beer with a balanced citrus note that makes it perfect for food pairings.  A summer salad of fresh lettuce, berries, cucumber, sweet tomatoes and light creamy cheese would do well. You may want to keep the salad dressing light as to not overpower the delicate mandarin orange notes in this beer.