February is the time of year where I start getting Winter fatigue and start dreaming about green grass with grills full of burning meats and an Adirondack chair full of my ample butt lazing in the warm breeze with an equally enchanting brew in my hand.

This new offering from Allagash embodies all of those things. Most of all, Hop Reach IPA is BRIGHT! I’m not just talking about the color but also the aroma and the taste. Once I poured it I caught the citrus notes of tangerine and grapefruit rind. There was also a hint of raspberry in that delightful fragrance. Once I got it up to my beer hole I detected some more tropical notes. That first sip was surprising though. I was expecting something so piney and hoppy that my face would scrunch up like a shrinky dink. But it was sweet and citrusy with a bit of mango and honeydew. It finished sweet citrus and hops and I felt like my face was slapped with a papaya. With a medium body and crisp carbonation I could crush many of these and most likely will.

The Sonic Pairing: I’m going with Foo Fighters third album “There Is Nothing Left To Lose” for this one. Not only would it be good listening with the scenario laid out above but it is also a bright sounding record that captures the laid back vibes of the Virginia countryside where it was recorded. The album contains bursts of energy as well as atmospheric songs layered with positive vibes and flavors. Hop Reach is sure to be a “Breakout” this year and “Next Year”. After a few sips you’ll be thinking “Ain’t It The Life”.

All beers featured in the Pike Sonic Beer Blog can be found at Wachusett Wine And Spirits in West Boylston and Worcester.