Firestone Walker Easy Jack IPA
With the increased heat of Summer now in full swing it’s time to stock the fridge with refreshing IPAs. And with the marketing trend of the “session IPA” also ramped up, now’s as good a time as any to fill those coolers with low alcohol, hoppy goodness. Firestone Walker apparently feels the same way. Their Easy Jack IPA weighs in at 4.5% ABV and presents a wonderfully fruity, hoppy and balanced brew.
The only knock against this beer and many examples of the “session IPA” is its lack of weight on the tongue. Many of these low alcohol IPAs just feel too thin as they go down, a bit watery at times even. And while Easy Jack IPA isn’t watered-down, it does come across a bit thin. If you can get past that, you’ll enjoy a wash of herbal, flowery hop notes — from Bavarian Mandarina, Hallertau Melon, Blend of New Zealand and American Mosaic varieties — and a welcome bit of malt in the background.
Appearance
A frothy cap of white foam falls to a sticky crown atop the golden brew (as seen in second photo below).
Aroma
Flowery, herbal hops dominate with a good bit of grapefruit and orange. Pine and a hint of bready malt rest comfortably within.
Taste
Easy Jack IPA is wonderfully balanced between fruit notes (orange, grapefruit), pine and a well structured malt backbone. Hints of lemon and grass persist, as well. A decent little hop bite (30 IBU) tingles the tongue as a touch of bread lingers. A soft sweetness forms late before fading through the lightly drying finish. As stated, it feels a bit thin going down.
Overall
I love the nose on this beer and the flavor nearly follows suit. It’s got excellent balance and is easy drinking — living up to its name just about perfectly. I just wish it didn’t feel as watery or as thin as it does. A little uptick in het here would do the beer some good.
Rating: 3.75/5
