Tripping Animals 8 Years of Tripping

8 Years of Tripping is a New England IPA from Tripping Animals in Florida. The name points to an anniversary release, though the details we have don't confirm that. No ABV or IBU is listed, so the notes below describe the style rather than a measured profile. Beers in this category are typically unfiltered and hazy, with a soft, full body and low perceived bitterness. The hops are usually added late in the boil, in the whirlpool and as heavy dry-hop charges, so the flavor comes mainly from hop aroma and not from bite. Expect tropical and citrus fruit such as mango, pineapple, orange and grapefruit pith, sometimes with a resinous or dank edge. A rounded, slightly sweet malt and yeast character balances that. Because the style depends on fresh hop aroma, buy it cold and drink it soon. Keep the can or bottle refrigerated, since warmth and age dull the fruit and can bring out a papery or muddy note. Serve it at about 4 to 7°C (40 to 45°F). Colder than that mutes the aroma, and warmer makes the body feel heavy and sweet. Pour it into a tulip, a shaped IPA glass or a wide-mouthed stemmed glass, so the aroma collects near the rim. Most NEIPAs are meant to be poured with the yeast, so leave the haze in the glass and don't decant it clear. The soft body and low bitterness suit food that would clash with a harsh, bitter West Coast IPA. Good matches include fish tacos with lime and cilantro, jerk chicken, Thai green curry, spicy wings with a cooling dip, and carnitas with pineapple salsa. The fruit character picks up the sweet and acidic elements in those dishes. Fresh goat cheese, mild cheddar and carrot cake also work, since the beer's sweetness suits creamy and spiced foods. Very delicate dishes can be overwhelmed by it, so it does best alongside food with some spice or acidity.