Beer Review: Shred Juice Master Hazy Double IPA (DIPA)
Shred Brewing’s Juice Master is a masterclass in the contemporary Hazy Double IPA style. Clocking in at a substantial ABV (likely 8.0%–8.5% range, though not specified on this exact label), this beer is designed to be a potent “juice bomb” and absolutely delivers.
Appearance
It pours with the definitive hazy glow of a true New England-style DIPA. The color is opaque, a warm, straw-to-apricot gold, resembling blended fruit puree. A thick, persistent, creamy white head sits atop, leaving sticky, intricate lacing that follows the level down the glass.
Aroma
The nose is a tropical explosion. Before the glass even reaches your lips, you are hit with waves of overripe, sweet mango and passion fruit. Cracking it open releases a pungent bouquet of candied pineapple, zesty tangerine, and a distinct floral-resin note that suggests the presence of modern Australian or New Zealand hop varieties.
Flavor Profile
The Juice: The palate is dominated by luscious, “soft” tropical flavors. You get intense notes of papaya, peach ring candies, and orange marmalade.
The Complexity: Underneath the dominant fruitiness lies a significant dank, cannabis-like resin character. A subtle, cracked black peppercorn spice and a faint hint of cedar from the malt provide a much-needed dry counterpoint, preventing the sweetness from becoming cloying.
The Finish: For a Hazy DIPA, the finish is surprisingly clean and snappingly dry, with a gentle, lingering bitterness that invites another sip.
Mouthfeel and Drinkability
The texture is perhaps the beer’s defining feature. It is pillowy, soft, and substantial, bordering on velvety, likely due to the generous use of flaked wheat or oats in the grist. It has a full, medium-heavy body. Remarkably, despite the “juice bomb” status, there is almost no perceived heat from the elevated alcohol content. It is dangerously drinkable.
Shred Juice Master is a triumph of balance. It has the high-impact flavor profile and thick, creamy texture of a hype DIPA, but retains a dry, clean finish that makes it refreshing rather than heavy. It is a brilliant summer beer, perfect for a BBQ or just relaxing after work.
Verdict: An essential pour for Haze-heads. A textbook example of why this style remains so popular.