Introduction

Joined by their legacy of ocean winds and expansive waters, Cigar City Brewing and Borg Brugghus of Iceland have joined forces to bring the seductive lady of the waters to our landlocked mountains. Aycayia – a legendary mermaid who enthralled men and destroyed their will – is the namesake of a refreshing IPA brewed in the north and distributed from the south seas. For nearly a decade Borg has been producing beer after beer with unique character and flavour. The Aycayia relies on its tropical heritage for the fruit flavour and higher than average alcohol.

IPAs typically have fruit notes in them, but the Aycayia takes it a step further. The bitterness from the hop and zest is leavened nicely by an almost sweet tropical fruit flavour, like the flesh of freshly cut pineapple and mangoes. Bright and bubbly, this IPA refreshes like the Caribbean breeze. Serves well at 6°C and should be enjoyed within a few months.

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How it looks

Pours like a mixture of sunlight and apricot juice with an active, bubbly body. A head of bone white foam springs up high and relaxes into a nice ring around the glass.

How it smells

Bright and fruity on top, like the flesh of pineapple and mango with a background of bitter zest from citrus peel. Earthy and leafy green hops gird the middle of the scent, adding to the bitterness but also giving it freshness.

How it tastes

The fruit profile is a big player in this IPA – orange peel and orange flesh along with mango, pineapple and a hint of stone fruit. The hop is powerful but rides along with the orange zest to complement the earthy hops just right. Some pine notes hide in the backend of the flavour, developing the taste through the swallow. A touch of grain from the malt. The body is smooth and light with a dry finish characteristic of a pale ale.

Recommended food pairing

A fruity and fresh brew with some bitterness demands fresh Dungeness Cocktail – combine the crab with coconut milk, lemon juice and cilantro for a blend of savoury and sweet fruits of the sea.