Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA - Best Day Brewing Review
Picking out a non-alcoholic brew can be a laborious task. Where does a drinker begin? Do you want flavor? Low calories? Mouthfeel? We’ve been in this situation many times before, and for the simple reason that many NA beers just aren’t that good … and often at the same price as a regular six-pack.
Well, we’re here to offer some advice on NA beer selection: Go with something hazy and hoppy. I know some out there may disagree, but when it comes to NA beer a hazy is your best bet. The malt choice of a hazy-style offers the mouthfeel that is often lacking in many non-alcoholic beers, and the aroma and flavor from the late additions of hops help cover some of that off-flavor that sometimes comes with NA beers. Get a Hazy IPA if you’re going the NA route.
That’s what we did this Sober October when we selected Best Day Brewing’s Hazy IPA. Best Day is a dedicated non-alcoholic brewery with a variety of offerings for those looking to dry out for a while. They have a Kolsch, a West Coast IPA, and a very interesting sounding lime-infused Mexican-style lager.
But today, we’re interested in the Hazy IPA—an always reliable go-to, and only 53 calories. Best Day doesn’t say much about their beer so let’s dive in and find out for ourselves.
First Impressions:
On the Eyes--Golden, hazy (thank goodness), and topped with a loose, cream-colored head that diminished quickly.
On the Nose--Light, hoppy aroma with a bit of malt sweetness. I get some juicy, tropical notes (maybe Citra?) and a gentle citrus akin to tangerine (Amarillo hops?).
On the Palate--The first rush of flavor is loaded with citrus depth from the tangerine in the aroma down to a slightly bitter grapefruit and blood orange finish. I would definitely say this Hazy IPA is loaded with the iconic Amarillo hop and its citrus, fruit, and floral flavor. As with anything labeled hazy, the mouthfeel needs to be scrutinized. Best Day Hazy IPA is medium-bodied with a nearly full mouthfeel, though, of course, not as lucious as many alcoholic hazy beers, but I wouldn’t expect it to be. The maltiness is light, as is the case with many non-alcoholic beers, and it has a dry finish with a mild bitterness that lingers only slightly.
Final Thoughts:
Best Day Brewing’s Hazy IPA has a gentle tropical aroma and citrus flavor with a lot of depth. It remains light while still having a decent hazy mouthfeel. It’s low in calories (53), good for active people, and perfect if you prefer something hoppier to kill the alcohol craving without the hangover. I think it’s quite good, especially when seeking out a non-alcoholic beer with more hop aroma and flavor than many mass market offerings.
As always, try an IPA or a Hazy IPA if you’re looking to test the waters of the non-alcoholic world, especially if you’re a fan of craft beer. It will be the closest thing to that flavor and hoppiness you’re looking for.
Cheers!
Mr. Brew