Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA Review: A Casual Sip for IPA Fans

When it comes to IPAs, Sierra Nevada has carved out a spot in the craft beer community. Their Hazy Little Thing IPA is a staple that you’ll likely find at many gatherings or picnics. It's not trying too hard to be anything it's not, which is something I appreciate. This beer has been around for a while, having been available since 2019, and continues to hold its own in a crowded market.

I've been a fan of Sierra Nevada for a while, mostly because they produce beers that are straightforward and reliable. The Hazy Little Thing IPA claims to offer a 'fruit-forward' experience, which intrigued me enough to test it out for a couple of weeks. I wanted to see how it stood up to other IPAs in the same price range.

As a casual beer enthusiast, my expectations are pretty simple: a beer that tastes good, doesn't cost a fortune, and is easy to find. With a 12-pack weighing in at a little over 6.5 kilograms, it's hefty enough to feel like you're getting your money's worth. But what really matters is how it tastes and feels after a day at work.

In this review, I'll cover various aspects of the Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA from its taste to its packaging, all from the perspective of someone who enjoys a good beer without needing it to be revolutionary.

The main selling point of the Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA is its taste. Described as 'fruit-forward', this IPA doesn’t stray far from what it promises. It has a notable citrus profile, with hints of orange and lemon that are both refreshing and light. It’s not overpowering, which can be both a good and a bad thing depending on what you're looking for. If you prefer a beer that’s in-your-face hoppy, this might feel a bit understated.

From my experience, it pairs well with casual snacks—think chips and salsa, or maybe a light sandwich. It’s definitely more of a laid-back drink rather than something you’d bring out to impress guests. For me, the taste was decent and gets the job done; it quenches thirst without overwhelming the palate.

After trying it over a few weekends, I’d say it’s a pretty solid choice when you want something consistent and reliable. Compared to other hazy IPAs, it might lack some complexity, but it compensates with its straightforwardness. It’s the kind of beer that works well in social settings where you’re more focused on the conversation than analyzing every sip.

Overall, the taste is good, but if you’re seeking intense flavors or a unique profile, you might find it a bit lacking. For a simple, easy-to-drink IPA, it fits the bill adequately.

When it comes to value, the Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA is pretty solid. At around the same price as other craft IPAs, you get a decent 12-pack that delivers on its promise. It's not going to knock your socks off, but it’s reliable and consistent, which is sometimes all you need. For casual drinkers like me, that's more than enough.

In terms of price-to-quality, it holds up well against competitors. You’re not getting a bargain basement deal, but you’re also not overpaying for what you get. The beer itself offers good flavor, and given its quality, it’s a reasonable choice for anyone who enjoys a steady IPA without breaking the bank.

After having this product in my fridge and enjoying it over a few weekends, I feel like the value is fair. It’s the kind of beer you bring to a barbecue or a casual get-together without overthinking it. If you’re big on trying out different craft beers, it’s a safe bet that won’t leave you disappointed—or amazed.

Overall, the value is good, making it a reasonable purchase for those who enjoy a decent IPA without the frills. It’s a practical choice for everyday occasions.

The packaging of the Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA doesn’t try to do anything out of the ordinary. The 12-pack comes in a standard cardboard box that feels sturdy enough to carry without worrying about it falling apart. Weighing in at 14.4 pounds, it has some heft, but it's manageable. The cans themselves are pretty typical, with a bright design that makes them easy to spot in a cooler or fridge.

The dimensions, 15.24 L x 22.86 H x 19.05 W in centimeters, make it a bit bulky, so you’ll need some space in your fridge if you’re storing the whole pack. The design on the cans is colorful and eye-catching, sticking with a blue and yellow theme that reflects the brand’s laid-back vibe.

I’ve had the pack sitting in my fridge for a couple of weeks, and the packaging has held up well. There’s nothing fancy about it, but it doesn’t need to be. The box’s sturdiness is appreciated when you’re carrying it around, and it’s recyclable, which is always a plus.

In short, the packaging is functional and does its job. It’s not going to win any design awards, but it doesn't need to. It keeps the cans safe and makes transport easy, which is all you really need for a 12-pack.