Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale – Your Perfect Summer Escape in a Glass

Updated → August 2025

Experience the ultimate refreshment with Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale, a citrus-forward pale ale that combines tropical fruit notes with a pillowy soft mouthfeel. This 4.8% ABV summer sipper delivers the perfect balance of refreshment and flavor without overwhelming bitterness.

The Hazy Beer Revolution

The craft beer world has witnessed a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with hazy beers emerging from niche New England breweries to dominate tap lists nationwide. Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale represents the evolution of this style beyond traditional IPAs, bringing the beloved hazy characteristics to a more approachable pale ale format.

This revolutionary approach to brewing has captivated beer enthusiasts who seek bold flavors without aggressive bitterness. The hazy or New England style emphasizes tropical and citrus hop flavors while maintaining a creamy, almost juice-like texture that feels more like a refreshing beverage than a traditional beer. Deschutes has masterfully adapted these techniques to create a sessionable summer ale that captures the essence of lazy afternoons and golden sunsets.

Deschutes Brewery's Craft Legacy

Founded in 1988 in Bend, Oregon, Deschutes Brewery has earned its reputation as one of America's most respected craft breweries. Their commitment to quality and innovation shines through in Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale, which showcases their ability to adapt contemporary brewing trends while maintaining their signature quality standards.

The brewery's Pacific Northwest roots influence every aspect of their brewing philosophy. Using pristine Cascade Mountain water and carefully selected hops from the nearby Yakima Valley, Deschutes creates beers that reflect their regional terroir. Their experimentation with hazy styles demonstrates a willingness to evolve while respecting traditional brewing principles, resulting in innovative yet balanced offerings that appeal to both newcomers and seasoned beer connoisseurs.

A Flavor Journey Through Citrus Paradise

Opening a bottle of Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale releases an immediate burst of citrus aromatics that transport you to a sun-drenched orange grove. The dominant notes of candied orange and zesty lemon create an inviting bouquet that promises refreshment before the first sip even touches your lips.

The flavor profile unfolds in layers, beginning with bright grapefruit and tangerine notes that dance across the palate. As the initial citrus wave subsides, tropical undertones of mango and passionfruit emerge, adding complexity without overwhelming the beer's refreshing character. The malt backbone provides a subtle sweetness reminiscent of fresh bread, creating a perfect canvas for the hop-derived flavors to shine while maintaining exceptional drinkability.

The Brewing Magic Behind the Haze

The signature hazy appearance of Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale results from a carefully orchestrated brewing process that combines specific ingredients and techniques. The grain bill features 25% wheat and unmalted wheat alongside pilsner malt, creating proteins that remain suspended in the finished beer. Flaked oats contribute to the signature soft, creamy mouthfeel that defines the style.

The hop selection plays a crucial role in developing the beer's character. Cashmere, Simcoe, and Lemondrop hops are added primarily during whirlpool and dry-hopping stages, extracting maximum flavor and aroma compounds while minimizing bitterness. This technique, combined with a specialized yeast strain that remains in suspension, creates the characteristic haze while delivering an explosion of hop-derived flavors that seem to float on your tongue.

A Revolutionary Style Mashup

What makes Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale particularly interesting is its innovative approach to style boundaries. Rather than creating another hazy IPA, Deschutes crafted a unique hybrid that borrows elements from wheat beers, witbiers, and hazy pale ales. This mashup approach results in a beer that's more approachable than traditional IPAs while maintaining the flavor intensity craft beer enthusiasts crave.

The lower alcohol content of 4.8% ABV positions this beer perfectly for extended summer sessions. Unlike many hazy IPAs that push alcohol levels higher, Neon Daydream prioritizes drinkability without sacrificing flavor. The modest 35 IBUs ensure that hop flavor dominates over bitterness, making this an ideal gateway beer for those exploring craft beer's hoppier offerings.

Professional Tasting Notes

Professional beer reviewers consistently praise Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale for its balanced approach to the hazy style. The appearance draws immediate attention with its pale, almost pineapple juice-like color and persistent white head that leaves attractive lacing on the glass. The turbidity isn't just for show – it indicates the presence of hop oils and yeast that contribute significant flavor.

The aroma presents a complex bouquet dominated by citrus notes, with reviewers detecting everything from fresh orange zest to honeydew melon. The taste follows through on these promises, delivering waves of tropical fruit flavors supported by a medium body that feels substantial without being heavy. The finish remains dry despite the initial sweetness, encouraging another sip and showcasing the brewer's skill in creating balance.

Perfect Food Pairings

The citrus-forward profile of Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale makes it exceptionally food-friendly, particularly with summer cuisine. The bright acidity cuts through rich, fatty foods while the tropical notes complement spicy dishes. Consider pairing it with grilled fish tacos topped with mango salsa, where the beer's fruit notes echo the tropical elements while cleansing the palate between bites.

For appetizers, this hazy ale excels alongside fresh ceviche or coconut shrimp, where the citrus elements enhance similar flavors in the food. The beer's moderate bitterness and effervescence also make it ideal with creamy cheeses like brie or camembert, while its wheat content creates harmony with salads featuring citrus vinaigrettes. Even simple summer fare like grilled chicken or veggie burgers benefit from this beer's refreshing character.

Understanding Seasonal Releases

Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale arrives as a limited seasonal release, typically appearing in late spring and remaining available through summer. This strategic timing aligns perfectly with the beer's refreshing character and summery flavor profile. Understanding seasonal release patterns helps ensure you don't miss out on this sought-after brew.

Seasonal beers like Neon Daydream allow breweries to showcase ingredients at their peak and create anticipation among loyal customers. The limited availability often drives demand, making it essential to stock up when you find it. Many craft beer enthusiasts mark their calendars for the annual release, treating it as a herald of summer's arrival. Check with your local retailer about pre-ordering cases to ensure you have enough to last through the season.

Optimal Serving Tips

To fully appreciate Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale, proper serving technique makes a significant difference. Start with a clean glass – preferably a tulip or IPA glass that concentrates aromas while providing room for the foamy head. Chill the beer to approximately 45-50°F, slightly warmer than typical lager serving temperatures, to allow the complex flavors to fully express themselves.

When pouring, aim for a moderate pour down the side of the glass, then straighten for the final third to create a proper head. This technique releases carbonation and volatile hop compounds, enhancing both aroma and flavor. Don't worry about the sediment – it's part of the hazy style and contributes to the overall experience. Some enthusiasts even gently swirl the last ounce in the bottle before pouring to ensure all the flavorful yeast makes it into the glass.

How It Compares to Other Hazies

In the crowded hazy beer market, Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale carves out a unique niche. Unlike hop-bomb hazy IPAs that can overwhelm the palate, this beer takes a more restrained approach that prioritizes drinkability. The lower alcohol content and moderate hopping rate make it more sessionable than typical offerings from breweries like Tree House or Trillium.

Compared to other widely distributed hazy options, Neon Daydream holds its own in terms of flavor complexity while offering better balance. Where some hazies lean heavily on sweetness or hop intensity, Deschutes finds a middle ground that appeals to a broader audience. The price point also tends to be more accessible than limited-release hazies, making it an excellent everyday option for those who enjoy the style without breaking the bank.

Best Summer Drinking Occasions

Picture yourself on a sun-drenched patio as golden hour approaches – this is the natural habitat of Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale. Its refreshing character makes it ideal for outdoor gatherings, whether you're hosting a backyard barbecue or enjoying a quiet evening on the deck. The moderate alcohol content means you can enjoy multiple pints without overwhelming your palate or your equilibrium.

Beach trips and poolside lounging sessions call for beers that refresh without weighing you down, and Neon Daydream delivers perfectly. Pack a cooler for your next camping adventure or hiking expedition – the citrus notes seem even more vibrant when enjoyed in nature. Music festivals and outdoor concerts provide another perfect setting, where the beer's easy-drinking nature lets you stay hydrated while enjoying craft quality.

Storage and Freshness Guide

Maximizing your enjoyment of Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale requires proper storage to maintain its delicate hop character. Always check the packaging date – Deschutes helpfully prints this information on every bottle and can. For optimal flavor, consume within three months of the packaging date, though the beer remains enjoyable for up to six months when stored properly.

Store bottles upright in a cool, dark place, ideally between 38-55°F. Avoid temperature fluctuations and exposure to light, which can create off-flavors and degrade hop compounds. If you're cellaring for a few weeks, a basement or dedicated beer fridge works perfectly. Never freeze the beer, as this can cause permanent haze and alter the carefully crafted flavor balance. Once opened, consume immediately – hazy beers don't benefit from extended air exposure.

Creative Mixology Ideas

While purists might balk at the idea, Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale serves as an excellent base for summer beer cocktails. Its citrus-forward profile naturally complements additions like fresh fruit or citrus garnishes. Try creating a beer sangria by adding sliced oranges, lemons, and a splash of elderflower liqueur for a sophisticated twist on the Spanish classic.

For a refreshing shandy variation, mix equal parts Neon Daydream with fresh-squeezed grapefruit juice and a hint of simple syrup. The beer's existing citrus notes harmonize beautifully with the added fruit. Another creative option involves floating a shot of limoncello on top for an adult twist on summer lemonade. These mixology experiments work particularly well for outdoor entertaining when you want to offer something unique while showcasing the beer's versatility.

Finding It in Jackson Hole

Jackson Hole residents and visitors can find Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale at The Liquor Store of Jackson Hole, conveniently located at 115 Buffalo Way. This well-stocked retailer maintains an impressive craft beer selection that includes seasonal favorites and limited releases. Their knowledgeable staff can help you locate Neon Daydream and suggest similar options if it's temporarily out of stock.

The store's extended hours (8:00 AM to 10:00 PM daily) make it easy to stop by whether you're stocking up for a weekend adventure or grabbing a six-pack for an impromptu gathering. Consider calling ahead at (307) 733-4466 during peak season to confirm availability, as popular seasonal releases can sell out quickly. The staff often provides insights about upcoming deliveries, helping you plan your purchase timing perfectly.

The Final Verdict

Deschutes Neon Daydream Hazy Ale succeeds brilliantly in its mission to create an approachable, refreshing hazy ale that doesn't compromise on flavor. The careful balance of citrus hop character, creamy mouthfeel, and moderate alcohol content creates a beer that's equally at home at a casual barbecue or a craft beer tasting session. Its widespread availability and reasonable price point make it an accessible entry into the hazy beer category.

Whether you're a devoted hop head or someone exploring beyond mainstream lagers, Neon Daydream offers something special. It captures the essence of summer in liquid form, delivering sunshine and citrus in every sip. As you plan your warm-weather beer selection, make room for this stellar offering from one of craft brewing's most respected names. Your taste buds – and your summer guests – will thank you for the delicious discovery.