Santa Fe Happy Camper IPA

Tasting Notes

The aroma leads with piney resin and citrus peel, backed by a light biscuit malt base that keeps things grounded. On the palate, grapefruit and pine dominate with a moderate bitterness that builds through the mid-palate. The body is medium, not thin, which gives the hops something to work against. The finish is dry and moderately bitter, lingering in a way that calls for another sip rather than overwhelming the palate.

About the Brewery

Santa Fe Brewing Company is based in Santa Fe, New Mexico and is one of the older craft breweries in the Southwest, founded in 1988. They've built a reputation as a regional anchor in New Mexico's craft beer scene, with a lineup that spans approachable lagers and wheat beers alongside hop-forward offerings. Their presence extends well across New Mexico and into neighboring states, and they operate a taproom that draws both locals and visitors to the area.

Food Pairings

Burgers with sharp cheddar work well here because the hop bitterness cuts through fat and the malt holds up to the beef. Spicy green chile dishes — a New Mexico staple — pair naturally since the resinous hops can match the heat without amplifying it. Grilled chicken with citrus marinade echoes the beer's own citrus character. A sharp or aged cheddar on a charcuterie board lets the beer's bitterness act as a palate cleanser between bites.

Style Guide

American IPA is defined by assertive hop bitterness, aroma, and flavor derived primarily from American hop varieties like Cascade, Centennial, and Columbus, which tend toward citrus, pine, and resin rather than the floral or earthy notes of English hops. The malt backbone is present but intentionally restrained, existing mainly to balance rather than compete. ABV typically runs from around 6% to 7.5%, putting this example squarely in the middle of the range. American IPA diverged from its English ancestor in the 1980s and 90s as West Coast brewers pushed hop intensity further than the traditional style had ever gone.