Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA – The Wyoming Craft Beer Revolution

Updated → August 2025

Experience the pinnacle of Wyoming craft brewing with Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA, a masterfully crafted New England-style IPA that delivers tropical fruit explosions, pillowy soft mouthfeel, and the perfect balance of hop flavor without the bite.

The Hazy IPA Revolution in Wyoming

The craft beer landscape in Wyoming has undergone a remarkable transformation over the past decade, with hazy IPAs leading the charge in redefining what Mountain West beer can be. Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA stands at the forefront of this revolution, representing a perfect marriage of New England brewing techniques with Wyoming's adventurous spirit.

Unlike the clear, bitter West Coast IPAs that dominated the American craft beer scene for years, hazy IPAs embrace a different philosophy entirely. These beers, also known as New England IPAs or NEIPAs, prioritize hop flavor and aroma over bitterness, creating a drinking experience that's more tropical paradise than pine forest assault. The style originated in Vermont but has found a particularly enthusiastic following in Wyoming, where outdoor enthusiasts appreciate a refreshing, flavorful beer after a day on the slopes or trails.

The hazy appearance that gives these beers their name isn't just for show – it's a result of specific brewing techniques that create a softer, fuller mouthfeel and help suspend hop compounds that contribute to the beer's explosive aromatics. This cloudiness, once considered a flaw in beer making, is now celebrated as a mark of craftsmanship and attention to detail.

Roadhouse Brewing's Craft Beer Journey

Roadhouse Brewing has carved out a unique niche in Wyoming's craft beer ecosystem by focusing on approachable, flavor-forward beers that speak to both craft beer enthusiasts and newcomers alike. Their commitment to quality and consistency has made them a staple in Jackson Hole's vibrant beer scene, where discerning locals and visitors alike seek out authentic, locally-produced beverages.

The brewery's philosophy centers around creating beers that complement Wyoming's outdoor lifestyle. Whether you're coming off the ski slopes, finishing a hike in Grand Teton National Park, or simply gathering with friends after work, Roadhouse beers are designed to be the perfect companion to these moments. Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA exemplifies this approach with its refreshing character and bold flavor profile that doesn't overwhelm the palate.

The journey to creating Haze King involved extensive experimentation with different hop varieties, yeast strains, and brewing techniques. The brewing team spent months perfecting the recipe, adjusting everything from water chemistry to dry-hopping schedules to achieve the ideal balance of haziness, hop character, and drinkability.

What Makes Haze King Special

Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA distinguishes itself through several key characteristics that set it apart in the crowded hazy IPA market. First and foremost is its exceptional balance – while many hazy IPAs can be overly sweet or one-dimensional, Haze King maintains a harmonious interplay between malt sweetness, hop flavor, and a clean finish that invites another sip.

The beer's appearance immediately catches the eye with its characteristic turbid, golden-orange hue reminiscent of fresh-squeezed orange juice. This opacity comes from the high protein content and suspended hop particles that create the signature haze. When poured into a glass, Haze King produces a fluffy white head that persists throughout the drinking experience, leaving attractive lacing on the glass as evidence of its quality construction.

What truly sets Haze King apart is its hop bill, which features a carefully selected blend of new-school American hop varieties known for their tropical and citrus characteristics. These hops are added at multiple stages during the brewing process, with a significant portion reserved for dry-hopping after fermentation. This technique maximizes hop aroma and flavor while minimizing bitterness, creating the juicy, fruit-forward profile that hazy IPA lovers crave.

The Art of Hazy IPA Brewing

Creating a world-class hazy IPA like Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA requires mastery of several specialized brewing techniques that differ significantly from traditional IPA production. The process begins with water chemistry adjustments, particularly increasing chloride levels while keeping sulfate levels low. This creates a softer water profile that enhances the beer's creamy mouthfeel and allows hop flavors to shine without harsh bitterness.

The grain bill for Haze King includes a substantial portion of flaked oats and wheat, which contribute to both the hazy appearance and the silky texture that defines the style. These grains are high in proteins and beta-glucans that remain in suspension, creating the characteristic cloudiness while also providing body and mouthfeel. The base malt is carefully selected for its ability to provide a clean, slightly sweet backdrop that complements rather than competes with the hop character.

Perhaps the most critical aspect of brewing Haze King is the hopping schedule. Unlike traditional IPAs that rely heavily on bittering additions early in the boil, hazy IPAs like Haze King use minimal early hop additions. Instead, the majority of hops are added late in the boil, during whirlpool, and as dry hop additions during and after fermentation. This approach maximizes the extraction of hop oils responsible for aroma and flavor while minimizing the extraction of alpha acids that create bitterness.

Tasting Notes and Flavor Journey

The first encounter with Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA begins with its aromatic bouquet. As you bring the glass to your nose, you're greeted with an explosion of tropical fruit aromas – think ripe mango, passion fruit, and guava, with underlying notes of citrus zest and stone fruit. There's a subtle dankness that adds complexity without overwhelming the fruit-forward character.

The first sip reveals the beer's expertly crafted balance. The initial impression is one of juicy sweetness, like biting into a perfectly ripe peach, but this is quickly balanced by a gentle hop bitterness that prevents the beer from becoming cloying. The mouthfeel is remarkably smooth and creamy, almost reminiscent of a fruit smoothie, yet it maintains enough carbonation to keep things lively and refreshing.

As the beer warms slightly, additional flavor layers emerge. Notes of vanilla and light caramel from the malt bill become more apparent, providing a subtle sweetness that complements the hop character. The finish is surprisingly clean for such a flavor-packed beer, with just enough lingering hop flavor to entice you back for another sip. This drinkability factor is what makes Haze King particularly dangerous – it's easy to forget you're drinking a beer with substantial alcohol content when it goes down so smoothly.

Perfect Food Pairings

The complex flavor profile of Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA makes it an incredibly versatile beer for food pairing. Its tropical fruit notes and moderate bitterness complement a wide range of cuisines, particularly those with bold, spicy flavors. The beer's creamy texture and residual sweetness help tame the heat in spicy dishes while its carbonation cleanses the palate between bites.

For appetizers, Haze King pairs exceptionally well with buffalo wings, where the beer's fruity hop character provides a refreshing contrast to the tangy, spicy sauce. The beer also complements creamy, rich appetizers like spinach and artichoke dip or loaded nachos, where its carbonation and hop character cut through the richness. Fresh seafood dishes, particularly ceviche or poke bowls, find a natural partner in Haze King's tropical fruit notes.

Main course pairings are equally diverse. The beer's hop character stands up beautifully to grilled meats, particularly those with fruit-based glazes or salsas. Think grilled chicken with mango salsa, pork tenderloin with peach chutney, or even a perfectly grilled burger topped with pepper jack cheese and jalapeños. For vegetarian options, Haze King complements dishes featuring bold flavors like Thai curry, Mexican street corn, or grilled vegetable fajitas.

Optimal Serving Guidelines

To fully appreciate the nuanced flavors and aromas of Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA, proper serving technique is essential. The ideal serving temperature is between 45-50°F (7-10°C), slightly warmer than typical American lager serving temperatures. This allows the hop oils to volatilize properly, releasing their full aromatic potential while maintaining refreshing drinkability.

Glassware selection plays a crucial role in the Haze King experience. While the beer tastes great straight from the can, pouring it into appropriate glassware elevates the experience significantly. A tulip glass or IPA glass with a narrow base and wider bowl concentrates the aromatics while providing ample headspace for the beer's fluffy head. The tapered design also helps maintain carbonation and showcases the beer's hazy appearance.

When pouring Haze King, a gentle technique preserves both carbonation and the suspended proteins that create the haze. Pour at a 45-degree angle initially, then straighten the glass as it fills to create a proper head. Don't worry about leaving sediment in the can – with hazy IPAs, that sediment is part of the experience and contributes to both flavor and mouthfeel. In fact, many hazy IPA enthusiasts recommend gently rolling the can before opening to resuspend any settled particles.

Hazy IPA vs Traditional IPA

Understanding the differences between hazy IPAs like Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA and traditional West Coast IPAs helps appreciate what makes each style unique. Traditional IPAs, particularly the West Coast variety, emphasize hop bitterness and clarity. These beers are typically crystal clear, with a pronounced bitter bite and resinous, piney hop character. They're designed to showcase hop bitterness as the primary flavor component.

Hazy IPAs take an entirely different approach. Rather than bitterness, they emphasize hop flavor and aroma. The brewing process minimizes bitterness extraction while maximizing the tropical, fruity characteristics of modern hop varieties. The result is a beer that's more approachable to those who find traditional IPAs too bitter, while still delivering massive hop character for enthusiasts.

The textural differences are equally significant. Traditional IPAs typically have a crisp, dry finish that accentuates hop bitterness. Hazy IPAs like Haze King feature a soft, creamy mouthfeel that coats the palate and enhances the perception of juiciness. This difference in mouthfeel comes from the higher protein content, different yeast strains, and water chemistry adjustments specific to the hazy IPA style.

Wyoming's Craft Beer Renaissance

The success of beers like Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA reflects the broader craft beer renaissance happening throughout Wyoming. Once dominated by macro lagers, the state's beer scene has exploded with creativity and quality in recent years. Jackson Hole, in particular, has become a craft beer destination, attracting beer enthusiasts who appreciate the combination of world-class skiing and exceptional local brews.

Wyoming's craft breweries benefit from some unique advantages. The state's pristine water sources provide an excellent foundation for brewing, while the high altitude affects both the brewing process and the drinking experience. The tight-knit brewing community fosters collaboration and innovation, with brewers often sharing techniques and ingredients to push the boundaries of what's possible.

The local emphasis on sustainability and supporting regional businesses has created a strong market for craft beer. Residents and visitors alike prioritize purchasing from local producers, understanding that supporting breweries like Roadhouse helps maintain the unique character of Wyoming's communities. This local support allows breweries to take risks and experiment with styles like hazy IPAs that might not find immediate acceptance in more traditional markets.

Seasonal Availability and Fresh Rotation

One of the keys to enjoying Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA at its best is understanding the importance of freshness in hop-forward beers. Unlike many beer styles that can improve with age, hazy IPAs are best consumed fresh to fully appreciate their vibrant hop character. The volatile compounds responsible for the tropical fruit aromas begin to degrade immediately after packaging, making fresh rotation critical.

Roadhouse Brewing manages this freshness challenge through careful production scheduling and distribution practices. The brewery produces Haze King in regular batches throughout the year, ensuring that retailers always have access to fresh product. Many craft beer enthusiasts have learned to check packaging dates and seek out the freshest possible cans for the optimal experience.

While Haze King is generally available year-round, demand can spike during certain seasons. Summer months see increased consumption as outdoor enthusiasts seek refreshing beers after adventures, while ski season brings its own surge in demand. Smart shoppers know to stock up when they find fresh batches, particularly if they're planning gatherings or want to ensure availability for special occasions.

Storage Tips for Maximum Freshness

Proper storage is crucial for maintaining the quality of Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA from purchase to consumption. The enemies of hop-forward beers are heat, light, and oxygen, all of which accelerate the degradation of hop compounds and can lead to off-flavors. Storing Haze King properly ensures you experience the beer as the brewers intended.

Temperature control is paramount. Haze King should be stored cold from the moment of purchase. While brief periods at room temperature won't ruin the beer, extended exposure to warm temperatures accelerates hop degradation and can lead to unwanted flavors. The ideal storage temperature is between 35-40°F (2-4°C), which slows chemical reactions while keeping the beer ready to serve at a moment's notice.

Light exposure, particularly UV light, can create skunky off-flavors in beer through a reaction with hop compounds. While Haze King's aluminum can packaging provides excellent light protection, it's still best to store the beer in a dark place. If transferring to a glass growler or similar container, consume quickly and keep the container away from direct sunlight.

Creative Cocktail Applications

While purists might balk at the idea of mixing Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA into cocktails, the beer's tropical fruit character and balanced profile make it an excellent cocktail ingredient for adventurous mixologists. The key is using the beer to enhance rather than mask its unique characteristics, creating drinks that celebrate the hazy IPA's distinctive qualities.

One popular application is the Haze King Mimosa, a brunch favorite that substitutes the beer for champagne. The beer's natural citrus notes complement fresh orange juice beautifully, while its creamy texture creates a more substantial drink than traditional mimosas. The slight hop bitterness adds complexity that prevents the cocktail from becoming overly sweet, making it a sophisticated alternative to the classic.

For evening cocktails, the Haze King Shandy offers a refreshing option. Mixing the beer with fresh grapefruit juice and a splash of elderflower liqueur creates a complex, refreshing drink that's perfect for summer gatherings. The beer's hop character plays beautifully with the grapefruit's bitterness, while the elderflower adds a floral note that ties everything together. Garnish with a grapefruit wheel and fresh herbs for a Instagram-worthy presentation.

Sustainable Brewing Practices

Modern craft breweries like Roadhouse Brewing increasingly recognize their responsibility to operate sustainably, and this commitment extends to the production of Roadhouse Brewing Haze King Hazy IPA. From sourcing ingredients to managing waste, every aspect of the brewing process presents opportunities for environmental stewardship.

Water conservation is particularly critical in brewing, where it takes several gallons of water to produce one gallon of beer. Advanced brewing systems incorporate water recycling and treatment technologies that minimize waste while ensuring the quality necessary for exceptional beer. Spent grain, the largest byproduct of brewing, finds new life as livestock feed for local ranchers, creating a circular economy that benefits the entire community.

Packaging choices also reflect sustainability priorities. Aluminum cans, like those used for Haze King, are infinitely recyclable and lighter to transport than glass, reducing the carbon footprint of distribution. Many breweries are also exploring renewable energy options, from solar panels on brewery roofs to purchasing renewable energy credits to offset their consumption.

Where to Find Haze King in Jackson Hole

Frequently Asked Questions