Ugly Duck Snake Driver

◎ Appearance

Pale golden-yellow with pronounced haziness throughout, creating an opaque, milky suspension characteristic of a well-made NEIPA. The dense, creamy foam rises with vigor and clings persistently to the glass walls, gradually settling into a thick collar. Fine carbonation underpins the presentation with active, sustained bubble activity.

◌ Aroma

Tropical fruit dominates the nose—ripe mango, passionfruit, and stone fruit leap from the glass, backed by the floral and pine characteristics of Simcoe and Mosaic hops. Subtle citrus zest and a soft, bready grain presence from the wheat malt and rolled oats provide ballast beneath the hop-forward profile. No sharp alcohol burn, just juicy, inviting aromatic depth.

◐ Taste

The palate opens with explosive tropical and citrus juice—Azacca and Citra shine through with bright, clean fruit character that coats the mouth without astringency. Mid-palate brings a full-bodied, slightly creamy mouthfeel from the adjuncts; the 8% ABV sits seamlessly beneath the flavor complexity. Bitterness is restrained at 50 IBU, playing a supporting role that threads through the finish rather than dominating.

◑ Finish

The finish is medium-length, with tropical fruit and a gentle herbal-hoppy dryness lingering pleasantly on the palate. Fading grain sweetness and a whisper of wheat character round out the aftertaste, leaving refreshment rather than fatigue.