Snake River Pako's IPA
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Tasting Notes
Pako's IPA leads with citrus and pine resin on the nose, typical of a well-constructed American IPA from a Rocky Mountain craft house. On the palate, expect a firm but not aggressive bitterness balanced against a solid malt backbone that keeps things grounded. The body is medium, neither watery nor heavy, and the finish is dry with a lingering hop presence that invites the next sip. If the specific hop bill has shifted seasonally, the through-line remains citrus-forward and resinous.
About the Brewery
Snake River Brewing is based in Jackson, Wyoming, and is one of the older craft operations in the Mountain West, having opened in 1994. They built their reputation as a brewpub before expanding distribution, and have accumulated a respectable number of national awards over the years. Their lineup spans approachable lagers to hop-forward ales, with Pako's IPA serving as one of their flagship year-round offerings.
Food Pairings
The firm bitterness and citrus character here work well against spicy foods like green chile cheeseburgers or fish tacos, where the hops cut through fat and complement heat. A sharp cheddar or aged Gouda holds its own against the resinous hop profile without being overwhelmed. Grilled chicken with herb seasoning pairs cleanly because the malt backbone matches the char without competing. Salty, oily snacks like kettle chips or roasted nuts give the bitterness something to push against in a satisfying way.
Style Guide
American IPA is defined by assertive hop bitterness and aroma — typically citrus, pine, or tropical fruit — derived from American hop varieties like Cascade, Centennial, and Citra. ABV generally runs between 6 and 7.5 percent, with a medium malt backbone present mainly to balance rather than dominate. The style evolved from English IPA traditions but diverged sharply in the 1980s and 90s through West Coast American brewers who dialed up dry-hopping and bitterness. It sits between the lighter Pale Ale and the more intense Double IPA, making it the workhorse of the American craft beer scene.