When I cracked open DEYA Glue, I was expecting a solid hazy IPA—but what I got was something that sticks with you in the best way. This one’s soft, juicy, and tropical, with a slightly sweet backbone and a name that actually means something. DEYA never really misses when it comes to hop-forward hazy beers, but Glue stands out—not just for the flavour, but for the story behind it.
The Backstory: Why “Glue”?
DEYA Brewing Company, based in Cheltenham, UK, launched Glue IPA back in 2019 as a tribute to a key member of their team: Reg, who was described as “the glue that held everything together.” She wasn’t a brewer or a marketing exec—she was just the kind of person every small business needs. Someone who shows up, keeps the ship sailing, and makes everyone’s life a little easier.
So when her birthday rolled around, DEYA brewed a beer in her honour. It ended up being so good, they brought it back the following year—and again after that. Glue became more than a one-off. It became a kind of emotional flagship for DEYA, and eventually evolved into a mini-series that includes Glue-Tac (a 4% session pale) and Super Glue (an 8% double IPA). Each one takes the core DNA of the original and stretches it in a different direction.
The main Glue IPA, though, is the sweet spot—usually around 6.5% ABV, packed with Nelson Sauvin, Motueka, and other bright, juicy New Zealand hops.
The Pour: A Hazy Beauty
Pouring DEYA Glue is a full-on sensory treat before you even take a sip. Out of the can, it flows like thick peach juice, settling into a hazy, glowing orange-gold that practically screams “juicy IPA.” The head forms quickly—a soft, creamy layer of off-white foam that lingers just long enough to remind you this beer was brewed with care.
There’s solid carbonation at play too—not too lively, just enough to keep things fresh. The lacing down the side of the glass is sticky, persistent, and oddly satisfying. It looks like a New England-style IPA should: cloudy, vibrant, and inviting.
Aroma and Taste: Fruit Bomb with a Soft Finish
The aroma on Glue is ridiculous—in the best way. As soon as your nose hits the glass, you’re greeted by a tropical fruit explosion. I picked up big notes of passionfruit, mango, and white grape, with a soft citrus edge that leaned into lime zest and maybe even a hint of pineapple syrup.
There’s also a subtle grassy note underneath it all—something herbal or vinous, almost like a dry white wine. That’s the Nelson Sauvin doing its thing, adding some adult sophistication to what could otherwise be a fruit smoothie.
The flavour follows through exactly as the nose suggests, with a smooth, creamy mouthfeel that ties it all together. The first sip brings waves of peach, grapefruit, and gooseberry, before transitioning into a richer, slightly resinous middle. There’s a sticky sweetness here—not sugary, but like dried tropical fruit. Think mango slices and papaya with just enough bitterness to keep things in check.
Despite the name, Glue doesn’t coat your mouth in an unpleasant way. Instead, it finishes clean with just a whisper of that sticky tropical note hanging around—enough to invite the next sip, but not enough to overwhelm your palate. The body is medium-full, silky with a touch of chew from the oats, but never heavy. It’s smooth, cohesive, and well balanced.
Honestly, this beer is dangerously drinkable for its strength. At 6.5%, it sits in that “don’t crush it too fast” territory—but with the way it tastes, that’s easier said than done.
The Verdict: 4.5 out of 5
DEYA Glue IPA is a near-perfect example of what a modern hazy IPA should be. It’s got the soft mouthfeel, the fruit-forward hop profile, and the drinkability to keep you coming back for more. What pushes it up a notch, though, is the heart behind it. Knowing this beer was brewed for someone who helped shape the brewery’s culture adds a whole new layer to the experience.
From the story to the pour to the final sip, Glue is a beer that just works. It sticks—not just to your palate, but in your memory. If you’re a fan of juicy New England-style IPAs, especially those using New Zealand hops, this is one you should absolutely track down.
Sure, it doesn’t completely reinvent the style—but it perfects the formula. And sometimes, that’s exactly what you want.
Leave a Reply