Founders Red Sweater IPA

Red Sweater IPA is an American IPA from Founders in Michigan. In this style, American hops lead the profile. Expect citrus and pine notes, possibly stone fruit or resin, backed by a clean malt base that gives the bitterness something to sit against. The name suggests a malt-forward, amber-leaning take on the style, and if so, caramel or toasted-bread sweetness would round out the hop bite. Check the label for ABV and bitterness figures before you rely on any specific number. Beers in this category usually have a firm bitter finish that lingers for a few seconds. Serve it at 7 to 10°C (45 to 50°F), which is cool but not ice-cold. Straight from a very cold fridge, the hop aromatics close up and the malt can taste thin. Let the bottle or can sit out for ten minutes after you take it out. A tulip or shaker pint glass works for an IPA. A tulip is the better choice if you want the aroma, because the narrowing top holds the hop volatiles and supports the head. A nonic pint is fine for a longer session. Pour it down the side of the tilted glass, then straighten it to build a one-to-two-finger head. The hop bitterness and malt backbone make this a good match for food with fat, spice, or char. Burgers, smoked sausage, barbecue ribs, and aged cheddar all hold up well. The bitterness cuts through rich, fatty dishes, and the malt sweetness offsets chili heat in tacos, buffalo wings, or Thai and Indian curries. Sharp cheeses and roasted vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes also work. Delicate fish and light salads are better left to a lighter beer, since the hops will overwhelm them.