Voodoo Ranger - Sweet Ride Juicy IPA
Short History
The Voodoo Ranger series has become a cult favorite in the craft beer world, known for pushing the boundaries of what an IPA can be. Sweet Ride Juicy IPA was born from the "Voodoo Ranger Rotator" series, designed specifically for drinkers who crave the "hazy" revolution. It was crafted to capture the essence of a tropical getaway, blending New Belgium’s legendary brewing consistency with modern, fruit-forward hop profiles.
Key Features
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Style: Hazy / Juicy India Pale Ale (IPA)
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ABV: 6.5% – The perfect middle ground for sessionability and punch.
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Hop Profile: Heavily dry-hopped with Citra, Galaxy, and Amarillo for maximum tropical aroma.
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Malt Bill: Includes oats and wheat to create that signature velvety, "juicy" mouthfeel.
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Availability: A sought-after seasonal release that fans track year-round.
Tasting Notes
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Appearance: Pours a beautiful, glowing golden-orange with a thick, frothy white head and characteristic hazy opacity.
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Aroma: An immediate explosion of passionfruit, mango, and bright orange zest hits the nose the moment you crack the can.
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Flavor: Sweet Ride lives up to its name with a low-bitterness profile. Expect waves of pineapple and stone fruit followed by a smooth, creamy finish that lingers without being cloying.
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Mouthfeel: Soft, pillowy, and incredibly refreshing.
Awards & Accolades
While specific seasonal rotators often move too fast for the multi-year festival circuit, the Voodoo Ranger IPA series has been a consistent powerhouse for New Belgium, contributing to the brewery's numerous Great American Beer Festival (GABF) medals and World Beer Cup recognitions. The Sweet Ride release specifically maintains a high "Must-Try" rating among enthusiasts on platforms like Untappd and BeerAdvocate for its balance and accessibility.
Overall Expression
Voodoo Ranger Sweet Ride Juicy IPA is the ultimate "easy-drinker" for IPA lovers and skeptics alike. It strips away the aggressive bitterness of West Coast IPAs and replaces it with a lush, tropical fruit juice character. Whether you’re on a literal "sweet ride" or just relaxing in the backyard, this beer delivers a smooth, sun-drenched experience in every sip. It is a masterclass in how a Juicy IPA should feel: bold in flavor, soft in texture, and endlessly refreshing.
