Orono Tubular

Tubular is a New England IPA from Orono, and that style designation tells you most of what to expect in the glass. New England IPAs are built around hop aroma and flavor rather than bitterness, so expect a hazy, juice-like appearance, a soft and full body, and tropical and stone-fruit notes such as mango, pineapple, peach, or citrus pith, usually with a touch of resinous pine or dank character underneath. The bitterness in this style sits low and rounded, with the hops contributing perceived juiciness more than bite. No ABV or IBU figure was supplied for this product, so check the can for the exact numbers; beers in this category commonly land in the mid-to-high single digits for ABV with modest IBU readings. The mouthfeel is a large part of the appeal. Oats or wheat in the grain bill and a yeast strain that leaves some sweetness and haze behind typically give New England IPAs a pillowy, almost creamy texture, with a short, clean finish rather than a long bitter one. Because the hop character is volatile, these beers are at their best fresh, so drink it cold from the fridge and look at the packaging date if one is printed. Serve it at about 4 to 7°C (40 to 45°F). Colder than that mutes the fruit aromatics, and much warmer lets the softness turn heavy. A tulip or a wide-mouthed IPA glass is the right choice, since the curved bowl gathers the hop aromatics and a pour with a bit of agitation will release them. A standard pint glass works fine, but a stemless tulip or a Teku-style glass shows off the aroma better. Pour most of the can in, leave the last bit of yeast sediment if you prefer a clearer glass, or swirl it in for the fuller haze. For food, the juicy hop profile and low bitterness suit dishes that carry some heat or richness without overwhelming the beer. Fish tacos with mango or pineapple salsa, Thai green curry, spicy chicken wings, carnitas, and burgers with sharp cheddar are all dependable matches. Sweeter, creamy cheeses such as young gouda or a mild blue also work, as do carrot cake and other spiced desserts where the beer's fruit character echoes the dish.