Halfway between classic Pale Ales—hoppy but not overwhelming—and juicy, aromatic IPAs, Hazy Pale Ales have emerged as a fresh and accessible beer style for all craft beer lovers.

Everything You Need to Know About Hazy Pale Ale

Originally referred to as New England Pale Ale, this style eventually adopted the name Hazy Pale Ale due to its naturally cloudy appearance—‘hazy’ meaning ‘misty’ or ‘foggy’.

Hazy Pale Ales are characterised by their pale, hazy colour and smooth texture. Unlike Hazy IPAs, which focus on bitterness and a higher alcohol content, Hazy Pale Ales are brewed with a lower ABV and milder bitterness. Their haziness is typically the result of unfiltered brewing or the inclusion of grains like oats, which add creaminess and a slight tang.

With less alcohol and bitterness, these beers allow the tropical, fruity hop aromas to shine. Their juicy texture and soft mouthfeel make them incredibly easy to drink—many even compare the experience to sipping on a tropical fruit juice.

Hazy IPA vs. Hazy Pale Ale: What’s the Difference?

Much like the debate between Stout and Porter, the line between Hazy IPA and Hazy Pale Ale can be subtle. That said, the main differences come down to alcohol content, bitterness, and body. Hazy Pale Ales typically have a lower ABV and a softer bitterness, making them a great introduction to hoppier beer styles like IPAs and DIPAs.

They offer all the juicy, fruity flavours you’d expect from a Hazy IPA—think mango, citrus, and stone fruit—but with a smoother, more sessionable finish.

How to Enjoy a Hazy Pale Ale

To bring out the juicy hop character, a Hazy Pale Ale is best served well-chilled, between 3°C and 6°C. This temperature enhances the tropical fruit aromas and refreshing mouthfeel.

Food pairings for Hazy Pale Ales include bold, spicy dishes. Try it with Mexican cuisine like tortilla chips, tacos, or quesadillas, or pair it with Thai favourites such as pad Thai or green curry. It also complements fried foods beautifully—think fried chicken, crispy fish bites, or spicy wings.

Discover Vocation Hop, Skip & Juice: A Must-Try Hazy Pale Ale

One standout in the Hazy Pale Ale category is Vocation Hop, Skip & Juice, brewed by the renowned English Vocation Brewery. This beer pours a beautiful hazy blonde with a thick, frothy white head.

Brewed with Simcoe and Citra hops, it bursts with juicy aromas of citrus and tropical fruits. The flavour profile balances mild bitterness with vibrant notes of mango, grapefruit, and passionfruit. With a lower ABV, it’s a perfect example of a sessionable Hazy Pale Ale that doesn’t compromise on flavour.

Serve it cold—ideally around 3°C—using the PerfectDraft beer tap to enjoy it on draught at home. It’s the ultimate way to savour this refreshing and fruity beer.

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