The Beer
Ectogasm New England IPA New England IPAs are a trendy brew for many across the country. In plain terms, it opens the doors for more traditional beer drinkers to try India Pale Ales. The hoppy and bitter flavor of a traditional IPA is hit and miss with craft beer drinkers (it’s a home run for IPA apologists). Yet, the New England IPA is different as it does not rely on being overly hoppy or bitter. Rather, brewers focus on juiciness and more tropical hop notes in their NE IPAs. That happens to be the case with Drekker’s popular Ectogasm NE IPA. It’s juicy and hazy, which we come to expect from an IPA, but it brings a flavor that does not pack a hoppy punch. That alone has made it one of Drekker’s best in their long lineage of great beers.
Drekker Brewing Company 1666 1st Ave N, Fargo
Why It Pairs Hoppier IPAs can command a palate to the point where food could become bland. Yet, with the softer flavor of the Ectogasm that will not be an issue for those looking to try the pan-seared pork belly. However, the mild bitterness and hop character do serve a valuable purpose in this pairing. They are designed to cut through fats that can accumulate in the mouth while eating. With a higher fat protein in pork belly, the Ectogasm will help to balance your palate following a bite and prepare for the next one.
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