Starr Hill Northern Lights IPA
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Tasting Notes
Northern Lights IPA leads with citrus and pine resin on the nose, the kind of straightforward hop aromatics that define the American IPA tradition. On the palate, grapefruit pith and a moderate bitter bite take center stage, backed by a lean, medium body with just enough malt sweetness to keep the bitterness from turning harsh. The finish is dry and hop-forward, lingering with a mild resinous quality. It's a solid, unfussy representation of the style without veering into haze or heavy tropical fruit territory.
About the Brewery
Starr Hill is based in Crozet, Virginia, with roots going back to 1999 when it started as a music venue and brewpub in Charlottesville. They've grown into one of Virginia's more prominent regional craft breweries, with a lineup that spans IPAs, lagers, and seasonal releases. They're well-regarded in the Mid-Atlantic craft scene and have been consistent medal earners at regional competitions over the years.
Food Pairings
The resinous bitterness and citrus character here work well with spicy foods — a plate of buffalo wings finds the hop bite matching the heat without amplifying it. Grilled chicken with herb seasoning pairs cleanly because the piney notes echo rosemary and thyme. A sharp cheddar or aged Gouda holds its own against the bitterness and brings out the malt backbone. Fish tacos with a lime crema are a natural fit, since the citrus in the beer mirrors the brightness of the dish.
Style Guide
American IPA is defined by its assertive hop bitterness and the use of American hop varieties — particularly Cascade, Centennial, Citra, and Simcoe — that produce citrus, pine, and sometimes tropical aromas. The style typically runs between 6 and 7.5% ABV with a medium body and a dry, bitter finish. It evolved from British India Pale Ale traditions but diverged sharply in the 1980s and 90s as American craft brewers dialed up hop intensity and leaned into domestic hop character. It sits between the more restrained English IPA and the hazy, soft-bitter New England IPA that has largely overtaken it in trendiness.