If you’re a fan of hop-forward beers with a fruity twist, Growling Dog Tropical IPA might have caught your attention. In this review, I dive into the beer’s history, pour, taste, aroma, and share my honest verdict. Here’s everything you need to know before cracking one open.
The History of Growling Dog Tropical IPA
Growling Dog Tropical IPA is brewed by Nethergate Brewery, an independent craft brewery in Suffolk, England, known for combining tradition with innovation. Since 1986, Nethergate has been creating award-winning beers, and the Growling Dog series represents their more modern, experimental side.
This Tropical IPA took 18 months of careful development, with the brewing team working to strike the perfect balance of juicy hops and smooth drinkability. It’s brewed with a mix of Amarillo, Idaho 7, Simcoe, Mosaic, and Azacca hops, creating a beer that’s as aromatic as it is flavorful.
The Pour
Pouring a can of Growling Dog Tropical IPA is a treat for the senses. It lands in the glass with a hazy golden-orange hue, topped with a creamy white head that holds its form nicely. The haze suggests a New England-style IPA vibe, full of juicy, unfiltered goodness. The carbonation is moderate, giving a soft effervescence and a gentle cascade of bubbles.
Taste and Aroma
Aroma:
The nose is where this beer really starts to shine. Expect a burst of tropical fruit aromas — mango, pineapple, papaya, with hints of citrus zest and a touch of dank pine. There’s also a soft malt sweetness that rounds it out.
Taste:
The flavor follows suit, leading with those juicy tropical notes. Ripe mango and pineapple dominate, followed by a resinous hop bitterness that gives structure without overwhelming the palate. There’s a whisper of stone fruit and citrus peel, and the extra pale malt base adds balance and body. Despite being 7.5% ABV, it drinks surprisingly smooth.
Verdict: 3.5 out of 5
Growling Dog Tropical IPA is a solid entry in the tropical IPA category. It’s flavorful, juicy, and well-balanced, though perhaps not as bold or innovative as some craft fans might hope. The sweetness could be a touch more restrained, and the finish a bit cleaner. Still, it’s an easy-drinking hazy IPA that delivers on its promise of tropical punch.
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