What are you doing? I know what I'm doing. I'm getting low and hazy with a Low & Hazy IPA from Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB). Truth be told, this beer was not my first choice to pick up on a recent trip to Murphy, North Carolina. No, that honor goes to Long Leaf IPA from the same brewery. It's one of my favorite North Carolina beers, and truth be told, one of my favorite beers of all.
But here's the thing: I can't find it anymore. When I first reviewed it, I opined it was tough to find in cans. Then, AMB was acquired by AB Inbev, and flowing through their distribution network, it became far more readily available. The beer never suffered and was always amazing. Last year (maybe the year before), AMB bought themselves back-no longer owned by AB. Guess what? As I said, I cannot find Long Leaf again. Last month I was in Murphy, and I saw the Low & Hazy IPA at Ingles, and I bought a six-pack. It is a tasty beer in its own right, and I wanted to support the brewery.
Don't get me wrong, I am glad to see AMB independent again, but there are upsides to brewery acquisitions as well. Anyway, on to the Low & Hazy. AMB Low & Hazy IPA has an alcohol content of 4.1% by volume with 29 IBUs and my cans are stamped 01/29/26. Happy birthday Nathan!
About Appalachian Mountain Brewery
Appalachian Mountain Brewery (AMB) was dreamt-up and brought to life by founders Nathan Kelischek and Chris Zieber; two cousins who both bring unique skills and passions to the table. Their German heritage, love for our state and passion for the environment and outdoors has helped to form the vision of AMB.
Upon opening the taproom in 2013, AMB became known as the first brewery in Boone, and quickly became known for brewing award-winning, high-quality beers and ciders.
Appalachian Mountain Brewery Low & Hazy IPA in an AMB Brewing Glass
Tasting Notes
AMB Low & Hazy IPA pours to a hazy orange yellow color with a thick fluffy white head and a dank nose of grapefruit citrus and tropical fruit. Taking a sip the beer is very light in body with an in-your-face citrusy grapefruit character, pith and bitter peel and a hint of flesh to boot. I get a hint of tropical pineapple and mango,a little dank, then the beer finishes with a decent herbal minty lingering bitterness.
Value & Verdict
I paid $10.99 for a six pack at Ingles. Total Wine advertises at $12.99 a six-pack at their Charlotte store.
I do like more malt in my beer but hey, this is a 4.1% session IPA, after all. I would certainly buy it again (but I will keep hunting for my beloved Long leaf IPA).
