Breckenridge Brewery Lucky U IPA
Colorado’s Breckenridge Brewery isn’t a company whose products make frequent appearances in my fridge. I suppose it’s my lack of history with the company, but whenever I see something of theirs it unfortunately gets passed over for the familiar. Well, now that I’ve had a chance to taste their Lucky U IPA, that may change in the future.
This 6.2% ABV brew was picked up at Total Wine the other day amongst a variety of beers in a mixed six pack. Lucky U IPA isn’t the greatest example of the the style, but its approachability — thanks to a well balanced hop character — makes it one that I can very well see myself buying again in the future.
Appearance
The beer pours a hazy amber with a small white cap of foam that dissolved slowly resulting in a thin ring around the surface. It appeared to pour thicker than most IPAs.
Aroma
Honey, citrus fruits, orange zest, pine resin and a balancing presence of caramel and bread combine for a nose that was well balanced and inviting.
Taste
A good bit of orange, honey and pine resin arrive first with a solid malt character. Hints of caramel, lemon and grapefruit arrive late. The hop bitterness is light to moderate making this balanced brew smooth drinking. The soft carbonation and medium-to-full body give the beer the feeling of being bigger than it really is. It’s still quite drinkable and flavorful.
Overall
Lucky U IPA is a pretty solid IPA. It’s a bit fuller than most beers of the style and alcohol weight, but I actually ended up liking that about it. The flavor profile is well balanced and the lighter hop bite makes it a beer that anyone can really enjoy.
Rating: 3.5/5
