Deschutes Inversion IPA
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Tasting Notes
The aroma leads with piney, resinous hops alongside citrus peel and a faint caramel sweetness from the malt backbone. On the palate, bitterness is assertive but not aggressive, with grapefruit rind and pine needle flavors balanced by a solid biscuity malt center. The body is medium, substantial enough to keep the beer from feeling thin under the hop load. The finish is dry and moderately bitter, lingering without turning harsh.
About the Brewery
Deschutes Brewery is based in Bend, Oregon, founded in 1988, and stands as one of the Pacific Northwest's most established craft operations. They built their reputation on approachable but well-crafted ales and lagers, with Black Butte Porter and Mirror Pond Pale Ale among their most recognized staples. Their brewing output spans a wide range from year-round workhorses to more experimental limited releases, and they maintain a strong regional presence alongside solid national distribution.
Food Pairings
Burgers with sharp cheddar work well because the malt sweetness echoes the beef while the bitterness cuts through the fat. Fish tacos pair naturally, as the citrus hop character mirrors lime and fresh salsa without overwhelming delicate fish. Spicy chicken wings find a counterbalance in the resinous bitterness, which helps reset the palate between bites. A sharp aged cheddar or pepper jack on a charcuterie board also holds up well, since strong cheese has the intensity to match the hop presence.
Style Guide
American IPA is defined by prominent hop bitterness, aroma, and flavor — typically showcasing citrus, pine, and resinous qualities derived from American hop varieties like Cascade, Centennial, and Simcoe. The style generally falls between 6 and 7.5% ABV with a medium body and dry-to-moderate malt presence that supports rather than competes with the hops. It evolved from the English IPA tradition but diverged significantly in the 1980s and 90s as American craft brewers pushed hop character to the foreground. Compared to a Double IPA, it is less boozy and bitter; compared to an American Pale Ale, it is noticeably more hop-forward and bitter.