Beer Review: Pizza Pals Hazy IPA
Collaboration: Fort George Brewery (Astoria, OR) x North Park Beer Co. (San Diego, CA) Style: Hazy / New England IPA ABV: ~7.2%
When two titans of the West Coast craft scene collide, expectations are naturally sky-high. Fort George, the masters of the “City of Dreams,” and North Park, the kings of the “TDH” (Triple Dry Hopped) movement, have teamed up to create Pizza Pals, a beer designed specifically to complement a greasy, salty slice.
Appearance
Pizza Pals pours a dense, glowing straw-gold. It carries that signature North Park opacity, reminiscent of fresh pineapple juice, topped with a frothy, two-finger white head that leaves beautiful “legs” on the glass. It looks substantial but inviting.
Aroma
The nose is an absolute hop bomb. Before the glass even hits your face, you’re hit with:
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- Overripe Mango and Papaya: Tropical sweetness is at the forefront.
- Dank Resin: A nod to the Pacific Northwest roots, providing a slight “green” edge.
- Citrus Zest: Bright notes of Meyer lemon and tangelo keep it from feeling too heavy.
Flavor Profile
This is where the “Pizza” element of the name shines. It’s built with a specific structural balance:
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- The Lead: A massive wave of candied orange peel and stone fruit.
- The Mid-Palate: Surprisingly creamy. The oats and wheat provide a pillowy mouthfeel that coats the tongue, acting as a perfect buffer for spicy pepperoni or salty mozzarella.
- The Finish: Minimal bitterness. It finishes with a “zippy” lime-like acidity that cleanses the palate, making you want to go back for another bite.
- Mouthfeel: medium-bodied with silky, soft carbonation. It avoids the “hop burn” that sometimes plagues high-ABV hazies, making it dangerously drinkable for its strength.
Pizza Pals isn’t just a gimmick name; it’s a masterclass in collaboration. It brings the juicy, hop-saturated intensity of North Park together with the structural integrity and drinkability for which Fort George is known. It is bright, tropical, and carries enough citrus acidity to cut through the heaviest deep-dish or the thinnest New York fold.
Pro Tip: Serve this in a tulip glass at around 45°F (7°C). If you’re pairing it with pizza, go for something with a bit of heat; the beer’s tropical fruit notes play beautifully with jalapeños or spicy sausage.
Available at SF Tequila Shop