Odell IPA
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Tasting Notes
The aroma leads with citrus and pine resin, backed by a mild tropical undercurrent that signals a well-rounded hop bill. On the palate, the bitterness is assertive but not aggressive, with grapefruit peel and a touch of caramel malt providing some ballast in the middle. The body is medium, substantial enough to carry the hops without feeling heavy. The finish is dry and lingers with resinous bitterness, which is exactly what the style calls for.
About the Brewery
Odell Brewing is based in Fort Collins, Colorado, and has been operating since 1989, making it one of the earlier craft breweries in the Rocky Mountain region. The brewery is employee-owned and has built a strong reputation for consistency across a broad lineup that includes everything from approachable ales to barrel-aged releases. Their IPAs and seasonal offerings have earned them a loyal following well beyond Colorado's borders.
Food Pairings
Spicy Thai or Indian dishes work well here because the bitterness and citrus notes cut through rich curry heat without competing with it. A classic cheeseburger pairs naturally, with the caramel malt echoing the char on the meat. Sharp cheddar or aged gouda hold their own against the resinous hops, creating a satisfying contrast. Fish tacos with a citrus slaw mirror the beer's bright hop character and keep the pairing feeling light. Grilled chicken with herb seasoning is a lower-key option that lets the hops do the talking without flavor competition.
Style Guide
The American IPA emerged from the craft beer movement of the 1980s and 1990s, drawing on British IPA tradition but pushing hop quantities and bitterness well beyond their origins. What defines the style is a pronounced hop presence — typically citrus, pine, or tropical — balanced against a supportive but restrained malt backbone, with ABV generally landing between 6% and 7.5%. It sits between a session IPA, which sacrifices strength for drinkability, and a Double IPA, which amplifies everything. American-grown hop varieties like Cascade, Centennial, and Columbus are central to the style's identity.