I cracked open a can of Refraction of Light by Amundsen Brewery on a quiet evening, curious about what one of Oslo’s most creative craft breweries had to say in a hazy, sessionable IPA. Known for their bold pastry stouts and eye-catching can art, Amundsen is no stranger to pushing boundaries, so I expected this to be more than just another run-of-the-mill NEIPA. Here’s how it all unfolded—starting from where this beer comes from to how it pours, smells, and tastes—and finally, whether I’d go back for a second round.
A Little History Behind the Beer
To understand Refraction of Light, you first have to appreciate where it comes from. Amundsen Brewery, based in Oslo, Norway, began its life in 2011 as a humble brewpub. Since then, it has evolved into one of Scandinavia’s most respected craft beer producers. Named after Roald Amundsen—the first person to reach the South Pole—the brewery channels that same spirit of exploration into its beers. From pastry stouts like their popular “Dessert in a Can” series to hazy IPAs and fruited sours, Amundsen consistently leans into creativity and experimentation.
Refraction of Light is part of their lineup of modern, hop-forward beers—an unfiltered New England-style IPA that clocks in at a sessionable 4.7% ABV. It’s not the heaviest-hitter in their collection, but it fits neatly into the kind of beer you could imagine sipping at a summer barbecue or while kicking back on a lazy afternoon.
The Pour: Hazy, Creamy, and Instagram-Ready
Pouring Refraction of Light is part of the experience. I cracked the can and tilted the glass to about 45 degrees. As the beer hit the bottom, I immediately noticed a dense, pale golden haze—not bright yellow, but more of a soft, straw-like hue with a cloudy opacity that’s signature for a NEIPA. The head was creamy and off-white, about a finger tall, slowly settling into a pillow-like cap.
The haze lingered in the glass, giving it that photogenic, juice-bomb look you expect from a modern hazy IPA. Light carbonation danced through the body, and as the foam settled, it left a thin lace that clung nicely to the glass. The beer looked smooth and soft, almost like a glass of citrus smoothie. Visually, it checks all the right boxes for style.
Taste and Aroma: Juicy, Smooth, and Surprisingly Subtle
Before even taking a sip, the aroma set the stage. It comes in waves—tropical fruits like mango, pineapple, and passionfruit are front and center, but there’s also a subtle hint of grapefruit zest and something almost peach-like in the background. There’s a light, grassy note too—nothing too dank or resinous, just enough to ground the fruitiness with a touch of green freshness.
The first sip is soft and juicy. There’s no aggressive bitterness here—just a gentle citrus peel edge that keeps things from being cloying. It drinks easy, with a pillowy mouthfeel that’s most likely thanks to a malt bill featuring oats or wheat. The hops deliver plenty of fruit-forward flavor, but not in an over-the-top way. Instead of being a juice explosion, it’s more balanced—a mellow wave of tropical flavor riding on a smooth body, with a finish that’s crisp, clean, and just a little dry.
There’s no lingering sweetness, and no boozy warmth (as expected from the low ABV). If anything, this beer plays it safe in the best way—it’s approachable, sessionable, and not trying too hard to be a flavor bomb.
The Verdict: A Chill, Low-ABV Hazy That’s Easy to Like
So, what’s the final word on Amundsen’s Refraction of Light?
I’d say this beer is like that one playlist you put on in the background—it’s not the loudest or flashiest, but it keeps the vibe right where you want it. It’s a smooth, hazy IPA that knows what it’s doing, and it does it without much fuss. If you’re deep into double IPAs and aggressive hop slaps, this one might feel a little tame. But if you’re after something easy-drinking and fruit-forward with a soft, balanced profile, it absolutely delivers.
Would I drink it again? Yeah, I probably would—especially on a hot day when I want something that won’t weigh me down. But it’s not a mind-blower, and it won’t dethrone the more intense NEIPAs I reach for when I want that next-level wow factor.
My rating: 3.5 out of 5. Solid, drinkable, and worthy of a fridge spot, especially if you like your IPAs on the smoother, lighter side.
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