Waterboys is an American IPA that’s brewed by Champion Brewing Company, and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in an IPA glass from a 12 oz. can.

Packaging art for the Waterboys by Champion Brewing Company

What You Need to Know

Waterboys is dry-hopped with Simcoe, Summit, Huell Melon, and Mosaic to deliver hoppy resin and citrus flavors. More importantly, a portion of the proceeds of all sales benefits The Waterboys Initiative of the Chris Long Foundation. So there’s good reason to give it a try. But how is the IPA? Let’s get to the review.

Appearance

The IPA pours a mostly-hazy pale golden hue and is topped by a finger-thick cap of dense off-white foam that shows remarkable retention. The head’s reduction leaves behind gobs of sticky residue on the sides of the glass.

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Aroma

The aroma isn’t particularly strong but it is quite pleasant, wafting bright pine and floral notes. As the beer loses its chill, mildly sweet tropical fruit is detected.

Flavor

The palate is hop-forward and plants a sharp note of lemon on the front of the tongue. A light cracker malt and sweet tropical fruit wade through the middle and the tasting rises to a bite of floral hops and resin that lingers briefly. The finish is rounded out with mellow melon and bready malt.

Label art for the Waterboys by Champion Brewing Company

Mouthfeel

The feel is crisp and dry and relatively smooth throughout. The body and carbonation and its bitterness is firm but not overpowering.

Overall

Waterboys presents nicely and its aroma, while not strong, is enticing. The palate leans hoppy but there’s enough malt to keep it the bitterness in check. The feel is spot on and its astringency lends to being thirst-quenching.

Overall, Waterboys is a hoppy pleaser, and even if purchasing a six pack wasn’t backing a worthy cause, this IPA is definitely worth a try.