Clown Shoes Rainbows Are Real

Rainbows Are Real is a New England IPA from Clown Shoes of Massachusetts, brewed in the hazy, juice-forward style that the region made popular. The label gives no ABV or IBU figure, so what follows describes the style's usual character and not measured specs for this beer. Expect a cloudy, golden-to-orange body, a soft and rounded mouthfeel, and a low perceived bitterness. Beers like this are built on heavy late-boil and dry-hop additions, often with oats or wheat in the grain bill for a pillowy texture. On the nose, New England IPAs usually lead with tropical and stone-fruit aromas such as mango, pineapple, orange peel, and peach. Citrus and resinous pine can sit underneath, depending on the hop blend. The malt stays in the background, adding a light bready sweetness that supports the fruit without making the beer taste heavy. The finish tends to be short and smooth, with hop flavor lingering more than bite. Styles like this often run in the mid-to-high single digits for ABV, so check the can for the exact number. Hazy IPAs are at their best fresh, so drink this one soon after packaging and keep it cold in storage, since the hop aromatics fade faster than they do in clear West Coast IPAs. Serve it at about 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). That is cold enough to keep it refreshing and warm enough to let the fruit come through. A tulip or an IPA-specific glass is the best choice because the curved bowl concentrates the aroma. A standard shaker pint also works. Pour with some vigor and leave the last bit of yeast and hop haze in the glass if you want the full body. The juicy hop profile pairs well with food that has some heat or fat. Try it with fish tacos, Thai green curry, spicy chicken wings, or a burger with sharp cheddar. The beer's low bitterness and fruity sweetness cool down chili spice, and the carbonation cuts through richness. Fresh goat cheese and carrot cake are good matches if you want something lighter or sweeter.