Latitude 33 Brewing Company's Blood Orange IPA has become a favorite among craft beer enthusiasts, known for its vibrant citrus notes and refreshing character. This deep dive will explore everything from its flavor profile and brewing process to its popularity and where to find it. We'll also answer some frequently asked questions surrounding this delicious beer.
What is Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA?
Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA is a sessionable India Pale Ale infused with blood oranges. This means it retains the hop-forward characteristics of an IPA but with a lower ABV (alcohol by volume), making it easier to enjoy multiple pints without feeling overly intoxicated. The blood orange addition provides a juicy, tart, and slightly sweet counterpoint to the bitterness of the hops, creating a balanced and refreshing flavor profile.
What does Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA taste like?
The beer opens with a bright aroma of blood orange, followed by hints of citrus zest and floral hops. The initial taste is dominated by the juicy sweetness of the blood orange, balanced by a moderate bitterness from the hops. There's a pleasant tartness that cuts through the sweetness, preventing it from becoming cloying. The finish is relatively clean and crisp, leaving you wanting another sip. The overall impression is one of vibrant refreshment and balanced flavor. Expect notes of:
- Blood Orange: The most prominent flavor, offering a juicy sweetness and a slight tartness.
- Citrus Zest: A subtle background note adding complexity to the citrus profile.
- Floral Hops: Providing a moderate bitterness and a pleasant floral aroma.
- Malty Undertones: A subtle malt base provides support for the fruit and hop flavors.
What is the alcohol content (ABV) of Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA?
The ABV of Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA can vary slightly by batch, but generally falls within the session IPA range, typically around 4.5%-5.5%. This lower ABV makes it an ideal choice for those who enjoy flavorful IPAs but prefer a lighter alcohol content.
Where can I buy Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA?
The availability of Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA depends on your location. It's primarily distributed in the southwestern United States, particularly in Arizona and surrounding states. Check your local craft beer stores, bars, and restaurants that specialize in craft beers. You can also check Latitude 33's website for a beer locator or to find retailers that carry their products. Keep in mind that this is a seasonal beer, so availability will vary throughout the year.
Is Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA gluten-free?
No, Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA is not gluten-free. It's brewed using barley malt, which contains gluten. Individuals with celiac disease or gluten sensitivities should avoid this beer.
What makes Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA so popular?
The popularity of Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA stems from its unique combination of refreshing flavors and sessionable ABV. The juicy blood orange complements the hop bitterness perfectly, making it an enjoyable beer for both IPA lovers and those new to the style. The lower ABV allows for greater enjoyment without the heavy feeling associated with higher-alcohol beers. The consistent quality and vibrant branding also contribute to its widespread appeal.
How is Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA brewed?
While the exact brewing process isn't publicly available, it likely involves brewing a base IPA wort (the unfermented beer) with a blend of malted barley and hops suited for a session IPA profile. Blood orange is then added, likely during the later stages of the brewing process, to ensure the vibrant citrus flavors are well-preserved. The beer is then fermented and conditioned before packaging.
This detailed exploration offers a comprehensive overview of Latitude 33 Blood Orange IPA, covering its flavor profile, alcohol content, availability, and popularity. By understanding these elements, beer enthusiasts can better appreciate this unique and refreshing craft beer. Remember to always drink responsibly.
