Beer of the Week: Lady Liberty

From the Beer Writer: Hazy IPAs are many and the most widely produced style of beer across the country. Pronounced hop aromas and flavors presented via a viscous yet drinkable texture can help a NEIPA (New England-style India pale ale) stand out…and a brilliant can design never hurts. This week’s featured beer, Lady Liberty hazy IPA from Second Chance Beer Co. has all of that going for it. Expert hop- and malt-bill composition from the Carmel Mountain Ranch-based business’ headman, Marty Mendiola, and a colorful, hop-cone-adorned rendition of the Statue of Liberty’s torch-grasping hand from local artist, Monica Diaz, provide those elements, but there’s another positive differentiator. A portion of proceeds from Lady Liberty will help fund the San Diego Brewers Guild’s Diversity, Equity and Inclusion Committee’s initiatives. It’s a nice little bonus for a beer that, with its bright tangerine nose and citrus-mango flavor profile, scores high marks all on its own.

From the Brewer: “Our Lady Liberty Hazy IPA is a culmination of several years’ work. Malted oats, malted wheat and tons of hops yet very little bitterness. We really should start calling them ‘hoppy, oaty wheat ales’, but I digress. We dedicated about 60% of the hop bill to the San Diego Brewers Guild hop blend, which supports our beloved guild and is a great blend! Then, we pumped it up with a bit of Cryo Mosaic and Cryo Idaho 7; such great hops and some of my favorites. The result is soft, malt fluffiness, with smooth hop flavors of berries and papaya. We love it and we know you will too! Have a great summer, celebrate and be grateful for our Liberty!”—Marty Mendiola, Co-founder & Brewmaster, Second Chance Beer Co.