SouthDown Double IPA by Wild Leap Brew Co. is being evaluated as a Fruit Beer (Category 29A) from the 2021 BJCP Style Guidelines.

SouthDown Double IPA pours a deep gold and is quite hazy with a white head that persists throughout. It features a prominent aroma of grapefruit zest and juice, along with a light hit of fresh pineapple and coconut milk. The citrus character of the hops shines through nicely. A light bready malt develops behind the hops to add some background character to the aroma along with a light floral alcohol.

The flavor hits you with prominent mixed tropical fruit up front, followed by a right cross from the grapefruit zest. Light bready malt with a hint of cookie dough sweetness emerges mid-palate along with fresh coconut. The moderate hop bitterness is smooth and complementary, but a touch more bitterness would make this beer sing. The medium, creamy body and light alcohol warming fit this beer nicely. The alcohol character is well integrated and smooth.

For some, the words Pina Colada on the label can invoke thoughts of an overly sweet and fruity beer. Fear not, this is not the case with SouthDown. The hops push out some lovely fruity character and, combined with the light coconut, it does make one think Pina Colada, but in a very good way. Don't pass up the opportunity to try this beer.