3 Floyds Permanent Funeral

Permanent Funeral is an IPA from 3 Floyds in Indiana, listed under specialty IPAs and weighing in at 6.5% ABV. That strength is moderate for the style, well short of the double IPAs the brewery is also known for. It should drink as a flavorful but approachable hop-forward beer rather than a heavy one. The "specialty" label usually means the beer departs from a classic West Coast template, so expect some character beyond straightforward pine and grapefruit rind. No IBU figure or hop list is published for this listing, so the notes below describe what beers of this type typically deliver, not a measured profile. IPAs in this strength range generally lead with citrus, tropical fruit, resin or stone fruit from the hops. Underneath sits a restrained malt backbone that keeps the beer balanced instead of sweet. Expect a bitterness that registers on the finish without turning harsh, and a body light enough to stay refreshing across a full pour. Because hop aroma fades with time, this is a beer to drink fresh, and it's worth checking the packaged-on date on the can or bottle. Serve it cold but not frozen, around 45 to 50°F (7 to 10°C). Fridge-cold dulls the aromatics, so give it a few minutes out of the fridge before pouring. A tulip or a shaped IPA glass is the best choice, since the curved bowl concentrates the hop aroma. A standard pint glass works fine if that's what you have. Pour with a firm stream to raise a head, then leave the last bit of yeast or sediment behind if the beer has any. For food, an IPA at this strength suits anything with fat, salt or heat. Smash burgers, fried chicken, carnitas tacos, buffalo wings and sharp cheddar all work well, as do curries and Thai dishes where the hop bitterness cuts through spice and richness. It's less suited to delicate fish or very sweet desserts, where the hops tend to overwhelm.