Double Haul® IPA
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Tasting Notes
Typical of a Pacific Northwest-leaning American IPA, Double Haul® IPA leads with resinous pine and citrus aromas — grapefruit peel and orange zest are common markers in this register. The palate delivers a firm hop bitterness balanced by a medium malt backbone that keeps the beer from tipping into harsh territory. Body is medium, with a dry, lingering finish that rewards hop enthusiasts without overwhelming. Given its 6.5% ABV, it sits squarely in the sessionable end of the double-IPA-adjacent range without sacrificing hop character.
About the Brewery
KettleHouse Brewing is based in Missoula, Montana, and has been a cornerstone of that city's craft beer scene since the mid-1990s. The brewery operates multiple taproom locations in the Missoula area and is particularly well known for its canned offerings, which helped bring Montana craft beer to a wider outdoor-recreation audience. Double Haul® IPA is one of its flagship year-round releases, named with a nod to fly-fishing culture that runs deep in western Montana.
Food Pairings
The beer's resinous bitterness cuts through the fat of grilled burgers or bratwurst, making it a natural at a cookout. Fish tacos work well because the citrus hop notes mirror the brightness of lime crema and fresh salsa. Aged cheddar or a sharp white cheddar provides enough funk to stand up to the hop intensity without being overwhelmed. Spicy dishes — particularly green chile or jalapeño-spiked food — benefit from the beer's dry finish, which tempers heat without amplifying it. A simple roast chicken with herbs also pairs cleanly, letting the hop aromatics complement rather than compete.
Style Guide
American IPA is defined by assertive hop bitterness, aroma, and flavor — typically showcasing American hop varieties that lean toward citrus, pine, and tropical fruit. The style emerged from the broader India Pale Ale tradition but diverged from its British counterpart by dialing up hop intensity and using a cleaner, more neutral malt base. Body ranges from light to medium, and ABV commonly falls between 6% and 7.5%, distinguishing it from the more alcohol-forward Double IPA. Where an English IPA emphasizes balance and earthy, floral hops, the American version puts the hops unambiguously at the center.