As part of my LowcostBeer.com haul, this was one of two Stone Brewing beers. I previously tried Delicious Hazy which carried an ABV of 7.2%, however this beer was weaker. I was interested in whether the beer can carry the same level of flavour. So in this review of Stone Brewing NeverEnding Haze IPA I will cover the history of this beer, the pour, the taste and aroma and finally, my verdict on this hazy ale. Cheers
A USA craft beer pioneer.
Stone Brewing was born to due to frustration at the mainstream USA beers. Personally I don’t blame them, there are some terrible types. In 1996, Greg Koch and Steve Wagner aimed to provide bold, flavourful beers to offer something different to the US market. Founded in San Marcos, California, they moved base in 2005 to Escondido, California which is a large operation that also contains a packaging hall. This is responsible for exports and also serves the west coast of the US. In 2016, they opened a large brewery in Richmond, Virginia to serve the East Coast more efficiently.
The philosophy of and style of Stone is hop forward beers, which are particularly high in alcohol content and were fundamental in the rise of the West Coast IPA beer style. They are also uncompromising on flavour as shown in beers such as the Stone IPA and Arrogant Bastard Ale. They opt for intense, full flavoured beers which push against the status quo. In terms of brewing style, they prioritise freshness, quality and sustainability.
Stone Brewing is famous for its use of a gargoyle as its mascot. The idea is that the gargoyle stands against ‘cheap ingredients, chemical additives and mediocrity’. However in 2022, Stone Brewing was acquired by Sapporo Breweries for $165 million which was a significant shift on ownership but they continue to operate under its brand and original infrastructure.
Moving onto the beer itself, NeverEnding Haze is part of Stones 2020 pilot series which was a set of beers which were evaluated for a full time spot in the their lineup. It is marketed as Stones’ Haziest beer ever in which they were aiming to deliver intense flavours of the hops and fruit characters. It contains oats and malts which will contribute to a thicker body than typical light beers.
An unbelievably hazy pour
When poured this beer gives off an absolute haziness with an orange colour which makes it look like orange juice. This is extremely opaque which is typical of a New England IPA. In terms of a head, it was foamy, thick and creamy that stuck around for the majority of the session. Consequently, lacing does follow. It was moderately carbonated however that doesn’t impact the overall appeal to the beer.
An extremely juicy beer
When it comes to the aromatics, an immediate aroma of citrus fruits comes through, especially the likes of orange and tangerine. It is supported by notes of pineapple and mango. A herbal aroma comes through which may be from the yeast used. This is followed by an earthy feel. Overall, a bright and juicy smelling IPA.
In terms of flavour, the aroma follows through but maybe a bit weaker than the aroma would let on. Notes of orange hits first and then followed by mango and peach. A slight citrus bitterness is there but it almost seems restrained. The feel of this beer is very smooth and quick but had a heavier body than typical 4% beers. Overall, this is a drinkable beer and does offer a nice taste but I feel this is let by the pure amount of aromatics from the beer.
Time for the verdict
Overall, this beer is an example of a beer that has more aromatics than actual flavours. Like this was not a bad beer however I feel it could have more flavour depth. It had all the traits of a hazy IPA in terms of juiciness and haziness but thats about it. Overall, I feel this deserves a 3.25 out of 5. It is not brilliant but also not terrible.
Where did I purchase this beer?
I purchased this beer from the legends at Lowcostbeer.com. Please check them out as they offer extremely reasonably priced beers along with top class customer service.
Cheers for reading my review. Please feel free to check my review on Stone Brewing Delicious Hazy IPA. Please checkout the rest of my reviews cheers.
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