New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Imperial IPA Review
Modern aspects of the style are embraced by New Belgium Voodoo Ranger Imperial IPA without compromising on affordability. Despite its high alcohol content, this beer is remarkably easy to drink, with floral, resinous hops balancing the bright, juicy flavors of tropical fruit.
Tasting Notes
Color: This beer pours crystal clear with a rich golden hue that nearly approaches amber, developing a thick, lingering foam that leaves beautiful lacing on the glass.
Nose: The aroma is surprisingly restrained for an imperial IPA, showcasing notes of crushed pine needles and freshly sliced melon. It’s rounded out with floral and fruity hints, alongside a subtle maltiness in the background.
Palate: Bright, juicy tropical fruit flavors dominate, with prominent notes of grapefruit, spruce, and freshly picked hops. Lively carbonation keeps the bitterness in check, allowing the beer's strong 9% ABV to shine without overwhelming the palate.
Finish: A malty sweetness emerges beneath zesty citrus flavors, making for a well-balanced finish. The bright carbonation energizes the tongue long after each sip, while a warm alcoholic glow lingers in the throat, making it surprisingly drinkable for its strength.
New Belgium Brewing Company has played a pivotal role in the American craft beer boom since its founding in 1991. Initially gaining popularity with its Fat Tire Vienna-style lager, co-founders Kim Jordan and Jeff Lebesch navigated the turbulent landscape of craft brewing by introducing unique styles inspired by their travels through Belgium, including a celebrated barrel-aged sour program. The brewery expanded in 2016 with a facility in North Carolina, and in a surprising turn of events, was acquired by Japan’s Kirin group in 2019, significantly broadening its distribution.
Before the acquisition, New Belgium launched the Voodoo Ranger IPA lineup, which has allowed the brand to maintain its innovative spirit. The Voodoo Ranger Imperial IPA, as the year-round double IPA, redefines the style by focusing on vibrant flavors and aromas that appeal to contemporary drinkers.
This imperial IPA stands out as a bright, juicy, and tropical choice—an impressive feat for a widely available beer. With a hop profile featuring Delta, Bravo, Centennial, Cascade, Calypso, and Mosaic, it delivers a style-defining dankness while vibrant effervescence enhances flavors of fresh grapefruit, pineapple, and melon. Although it lacks the hazy appearance characteristic of New England IPAs, it compensates with a beautifully balanced flavor profile and a crisp finish, devoid of the grassy greenness or hop burn often found in cloudy counterparts.
At $12 per six-pack, it’s also a great value for its style, offering rich flavors without breaking the bank. The 9% ABV is well-integrated, making it easy to drink but potent, so serve it with caution.
This beer’s bright flavor and higher ABV make it an excellent pairing with various foods. It can easily substitute wine, enhancing dishes like salads, ceviche, pizza, and paella. Its complexity makes it a versatile choice for rich meals too.
Overall, Voodoo Ranger Imperial IPA is a reliable option when you want a double IPA but aren’t familiar with the offerings in the beer aisle. Just remember that, as with any IPA, freshness is key—always check for the “best by” date, which New Belgium conveniently prints on their packaging.
