The Ultimate Guide to Gloves Off DDH NEIPA by Little Willow Brewing Co

The craft beer scene has taken the world by storm, and New England IPAs (NEIPAs) have become a favorite among enthusiasts for their juicy, hazy profiles. One standout in this category is the “Gloves Off” Double Dry Hopped NEIPA from Little Willow Brewing Company. With its unique flavor profile, intriguing aroma, and high drinkability, this beer is a perfect representation of the NEIPA style. In this guide, we’ll explore everything there is to know about Gloves Off, comparing it with other beers and delving into tasting notes, brewing techniques, and more.

Comparison of Different Types of NEIPAs

Type of NEIPA	Alcohol by Volume (ABV)	Flavor Profile	Appearance	Best Served With
Gloves Off DDH NEIPA	8.2%	Juicy, tropical, citrusy	Hazy, golden	Spicy dishes, grilled meats
Traditional NEIPA	6.5% – 7.5%	Fruity, piney	Hazy, amber	Pizza, burgers
Session NEIPA	4.0% – 5.5%	Light, citrusy, floral	Pale, slightly hazy	Salads, light appetizers
Imperial NEIPA	8.0% – 10.5%	Intense, hoppy, resiny	Darker gold	Strong cheeses, rich desserts

What Makes Gloves Off Unique?

Tasting Notes

Gloves Off is characterized by its vibrant hop profile, showcasing a blend of tropical fruit flavors such as mango, pineapple, and grapefruit. The double dry hopping process enhances these fruity notes, resulting in a beer that is both aromatic and flavorful. It boasts a smooth mouthfeel, making it incredibly easy to drink despite its higher ABV of 8.2%.

Brewing Process

Little Willow Brewing Co employs a meticulous brewing process for Gloves Off. The double dry hopping technique involves adding hops at two different stages of fermentation. This not only intensifies the hop aroma and flavor but also preserves the essential oils that contribute to the beer’s overall profile. The use of quality grains and yeast further complements the hop character, creating a well-rounded beverage.

Food Pairings

When it comes to food pairings, Gloves Off shines alongside spicy dishes like Thai curry or buffalo wings. The beer’s fruity notes can balance out the heat, providing a refreshing contrast. Additionally, it pairs well with grilled meats, pizzas, and even desserts like fruit tarts, making it a versatile choice for any occasion.

The Evolution of NEIPAs

Historical Context

The NEIPA style emerged in the early 2000s, primarily from the New England region of the United States. Breweries began experimenting with hop varieties and brewing techniques, leading to the development of this hazy, juicy beer style. Little Willow Brewing Co has embraced this trend, delivering a modern interpretation with Gloves Off.

Popularity Surge

Over the past decade, NEIPAs have gained immense popularity in the craft beer community. Their approachable flavor profiles and hazy appearances attract a wide audience, from seasoned beer drinkers to newcomers. Gloves Off exemplifies this trend, appealing to those who appreciate hoppy beers without the bitterness often associated with traditional IPAs.

Technical Features of Gloves Off

Feature	Description
Brewery	Little Willow Brewing Company
Style	Double Dry Hopped New England IPA
ABV	8.2%
IBU	50
Availability	Seasonal, limited release
Packaging	16oz cans
Flavor Hops	Mosaic, Simcoe, Citra
Aroma Hops	Amarillo, Galaxy

Craft Beer Trends and Future Outlook

Current Trends

As the craft beer market continues to evolve, trends like sustainability and innovative brewing methods are gaining traction. Little Willow Brewing Co is at the forefront of these trends, focusing on sustainable sourcing and environmentally friendly practices. The popularity of hazy beers, including Gloves Off, shows no signs of waning, as consumers increasingly seek out unique and flavorful brews.

Future Innovations

Looking ahead, breweries are likely to experiment more with hop varieties and adjuncts, pushing the boundaries of what NEIPAs can be. Little Willow Brewing Co may introduce limited-edition variants of Gloves Off, incorporating different hops or barrel-aging techniques to create new flavor experiences.

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Conclusion

Gloves Off by Little Willow Brewing Co stands out in the crowded NEIPA market with its vibrant hop profile, smooth mouthfeel, and high drinkability. This beer exemplifies the evolution of craft brewing and the growing popularity of New England IPAs. Whether you’re enjoying it on a warm day or pairing it with a delicious meal, Gloves Off promises an exceptional drinking experience.

FAQ

What is the ABV of Gloves Off?
The ABV of Gloves Off is 8.2%, making it a strong yet highly drinkable NEIPA.

What hops are used in Gloves Off?
Gloves Off features a blend of Mosaic, Simcoe, Citra, Amarillo, and Galaxy hops, contributing to its fruity and aromatic profile.

Where can I buy Gloves Off?
You can find Gloves Off at various retailers, including www.beeradvocate.com, order.toasttab.com, beerandwinenation.com, and provisionswine.com.

What does “double dry hopped” mean?
Double dry hopping involves adding hops at two different stages of fermentation, enhancing the beer’s aroma and flavor without increasing bitterness.

What foods pair well with Gloves Off?
Gloves Off pairs well with spicy dishes, grilled meats, pizzas, and fruity desserts, making it a versatile beer for various meals.

How does Gloves Off compare to traditional IPAs?
Gloves Off is hazy, juicy, and has a lower perceived bitterness compared to traditional IPAs, which often exhibit more piney and bitter characteristics.

Is Gloves Off a seasonal release?
Yes, Gloves Off is considered a seasonal, limited release from Little Willow Brewing Co.

What is the hop profile of Gloves Off?
Gloves Off features a tropical and citrusy hop profile, with prominent notes of mango, pineapple, and grapefruit.

Can I find reviews of Gloves Off online?
Yes, you can find reviews and ratings for Gloves Off on platforms like beeradvocate.com and untappd.com.

Does Little Willow Brewing Co offer tours or tastings?
Little Willow Brewing Co typically offers brewery tours and tastings, allowing beer enthusiasts to learn more about their brewing process and sample their offerings.