Beer Review: Maine Beer Co. Lunch IPA
Lunch is the flagship India Pale Ale from Maine Beer Company, named not for the meal, but in honor of a whale spotted off the coast of Maine since 1982. This beer has earned a legendary reputation for its focus on balance and hop aromatics rather than aggressive bitterness. It represents a refined approach to the American IPA, prioritizing clean fermentation and high-quality ingredients.
Aroma
The aroma is led by vibrant notes of citrus peel, primarily orange and grapefruit, and is followed by a touch of pine. Underlying biscuity maltiness brings balance, creating a clean and refreshing bouquet.
Appearance
Maine Beer Co. Lunch IPA pours a beautiful golden-amber color with remarkable clarity. A creamy, white head develops on top, exhibiting excellent retention and leaving behind thick lacing on the glass.
Flavor
Vibrant, clean flavor profile is dominated by layers of juicy citrus—orange and tropical fruit notes. A mild, clean malt sweetness quickly balances this hop forwardness, providing a smooth and satisfying mouthfeel.
Mouthfeel
This is a medium-bodied beer with lively carbonation, offering a clean and refreshing texture. It’s highly drinkable and crisp, perfect for warm weather or for cleansing the palate.
This is a high-quality, well-crafted, extremely clean India pale ale. Its balanced profile of citrusy hops and smooth malt makes it incredibly refreshing and widely appealing. If you appreciate clean, balanced beers, this is a must-try.