I grabbed a six pack today and noticed the new can design. After pouring the first one, to me it seemed a bit lighter in color, mouthfeel and taste. Someone in the know, please tell me nothing was changed with one of my favorites and my taste buds today were just “off”. Or I will be pissed!!!
From what I understand Odell IPA is one of those beers that has changed gradually over time. Kinda like Fat Tire before they full-on swapped it over to a blonde ale. I had one a few weeks ago and it tasted "normal" but I bet the current version would taste pretty different side-by-side with an Odell IPA from 2007.
I did a side by side comparison with the new can version and the one that’s been available for several years now. In appearance, the older version seems to have just a touch shade darker color, a bit more orange. In a blind taste test administered by my unbiased wife, I picked the older version right away. To me it just has a bit more body, while the other seems a bit lighter in body. The differences are so small that if an Odell brewer says both are the exact same recipe , I wouldn’t argue too much!
I bought a 6pack today and have had 2 from the pack. Best before August 6th so not super fresh but also not old in my book (bought from cooler) It does seem lighter than what I remember, mostly in the hop bite..still has a decent malt bill, and is easy drinking. I'll buy it again.(my first samples in years)
