{"title":"Cigar City Brewing","description":null,"products":[{"product_id":"cigar-city-guayabara-6pk","title":"Cigar City Guayabara 6Pk","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCigar City Guayabera Pale Ale 6-Pack\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Citra-hopped American Pale Ale from Tampa, Florida, at 5.5% ABV and 50 IBU, sold in a six-pack of 12 oz cans. This expression earned a Silver Medal at the 2018 Great American Beer Festival in the International-style Pale Ale category and carries a 91 score on BeerAdvocate from over 1,100 ratings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 5.5%  |  IBU: 50  |  Origin: Tampa, Florida  |  Style: American Pale Ale  |  Brewery: Cigar City Brewing\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCigar City Brewing operates out of Tampa, Florida, a city historically tied to the cigar industry — a heritage the brewery weaves into its branding and beer names. Guayabera is built on a deliberately simple malt bill that provides moderate breadiness while letting the hops take center stage. The defining production choice is the exclusive use of Citra hops, a single-varietal approach that creates a focused, recognizable tropical and citrus character without competing hop profiles muddying the picture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose bursts with tropical fruit — mango, lychee, and ripe tangerine — followed by bright lime leaf and grapefruit zest. A subtle undercurrent of mild pine rounds out the aromatics.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is bright and citrus-forward, with tangerine and berry flavors hitting first. Mid-palate, grapefruit and orange emerge alongside a moderate bready malt sweetness that anchors the assertive bitterness at 50 IBU. The balance between hop intensity and malt restraint keeps each sip clean and drinkable.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Crisp and dry with lingering citrus peel and a faint tropical echo. Light to medium body and medium-to-high carbonation give it a refreshing snap that invites the next sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Guayabera\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eGuayabera drinks best cold — around 40–45°F — straight from the can or poured into a pint glass to open up the hop aromatics. Its versatility also makes it a strong base for beer cocktails. A \u003cstrong\u003eCitrus Shandy\u003c\/strong\u003e works well here, where the Citra hop profile amplifies fresh lemonade rather than fighting it. A \u003cstrong\u003eMichelada\u003c\/strong\u003e benefits from the beer's dry finish and citrus character cutting through the tomato-lime heat. For something unconventional, try it in a \u003cstrong\u003eBeer Margarita\u003c\/strong\u003e, where Guayabera's tropical fruit notes merge naturally with tequila and lime.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBackyard cookouts and warm-weather grilling sessions\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing hop-curious drinkers to single-varietal pale ales\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with spicy or citrus-driven dishes\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStocking a craft beer fridge with a reliable everyday pale ale\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Guayabera taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Guayabera delivers bright tangerine, grapefruit, and tropical fruit flavors balanced by moderate bready malt and a crisp, dry finish. It is assertively bitter at 50 IBU but remains highly drinkable thanks to its clean, focused Citra hop character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Guayabera compare to El Segundo Citra Pale Ale?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are single-hop Citra pale ales at 5.5% ABV, but Guayabera leans more tropical with prominent mango and lychee notes, while El Segundo's version tends toward a slightly more resinous, West Coast-influenced bitterness. Guayabera's GABF Silver Medal and 91 BeerAdvocate score give it strong critical backing in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Guayabera good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its approachable 5.5% ABV and clean single-hop profile make it an excellent entry point into American Pale Ales without overwhelming bitterness or complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Guayabera made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Guayabera is brewed by Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Florida. The brewery draws its identity from Tampa's historic cigar culture and has become one of the most recognized craft breweries in the Southeast.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Guayabera?\u003c\/strong\u003e Grilled shrimp tacos benefit from the beer's citrus-tropical character. Jerk chicken matches the assertive hop bitterness with smoky heat. Fish ceviche mirrors the lime and grapefruit notes. Thai green curry finds balance against the dry, carbonated finish. A simple margherita pizza lets the hop aromatics shine without competing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Guayabera come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Guayabera is commonly available in 6-packs of 12 oz cans, and Cigar City also distributes it in draft format at select locations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Guayabera worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Guayabera positions as a well-priced everyday craft pale ale — competitive within the American Pale Ale category and delivering single-hop Citra character that rivals more expensive specialty releases.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Guayabera?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe exclusive use of Citra hops is the defining move here — rather than blending multiple hop varieties, Cigar City bets everything on one and executes it with precision. That commitment earned the beer a 2018 GABF Silver Medal and a 91 on BeerAdvocate, placing it among the most critically respected pale ales in its class. The simple malt backbone stays out of the way, letting the tropical and citrus aromatics do the heavy lifting. For drinkers who want to understand what Citra hops can do on their own, Guayabera remains one of the clearest and most drinkable demonstrations available.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cigar City Brewing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44838102007977,"sku":"30325","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"cigar-city-jai-alai-6pk","title":"Cigar City Jai Alai 6Pk","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCigar City Jai Alai IPA 6-Pack\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 7.5% ABV American IPA from Tampa, Florida, sold in a six-pack of 12 oz cans. Rated 95 on BeerAdvocate across more than 9,000 reviews, Jai Alai has earned its reputation as one of the most celebrated IPAs in the American craft beer landscape.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 7.5%  |  IBU: 65  |  Origin: Tampa, Florida  |  Style: American IPA  |  Brewery: Cigar City Brewing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCigar City Brewing operates out of Tampa, Florida, a city steeped in cigar-making history and Latin American cultural influence — both reflected in the brewery's naming and branding. Jai Alai IPA uses six distinct hop varietals — Amarillo, Cascade, Centennial, CTZ (Columbus\/Tomahawk\/Zeus), Motueka, and Simcoe — layered generously throughout the brewing process to build complexity rather than relying on a single dominant hop. The result is a beer with 65 IBUs that reads as assertively bitter on paper but drinks with surprising balance, anchored by a light malt backbone that keeps the citrus and resin from overwhelming the palate.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Tangerine and candied orange peel dominate the nose immediately, followed by bursts of grapefruit and a subtle undercurrent of pine resin. The hop aromatics are vivid and layered, revealing new citrus dimensions as the beer warms slightly.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is juicy and almost clementine-like, bright with orange citrus and lighter acidity. At mid-palate, Valencia orange sweetness and a touch of caramel malt emerge, providing counterpoint before the assertive hop bitterness takes hold. The balance between sugar, acid, and bitterness is precise and well-calibrated.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Clean and dry with lingering grapefruit pith and pine. The bitterness is controlled rather than abrasive, fading steadily and inviting the next sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Jai Alai\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePour into a tulip glass or standard pint glass at 40–45°F to let the hop aromatics open up fully; drinking straight from the can mutes much of the complexity. Jai Alai also works well as a beer cocktail base: try a \u003cstrong\u003eMichelada\u003c\/strong\u003e variation using Jai Alai in place of a lighter lager for a citrus-amplified, spicy kick; a \u003cstrong\u003eShandy\u003c\/strong\u003e mixed half-and-half with fresh lemonade to tame the bitterness on hot days; or a \u003cstrong\u003eHop Drop 'n Roll\u003c\/strong\u003e — a beer cocktail combining Jai Alai with a splash of fresh grapefruit juice and a dash of simple syrup to lean into its natural citrus profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing a craft beer newcomer to American IPAs with a benchmark example\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eStocking the fridge for a backyard cookout or tailgate\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting a hop-forward beer lover who values complexity over single-note bitterness\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with grilled or spicy foods where bold flavors can hold their own\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Jai Alai taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Jai Alai is citrus-driven with prominent flavors of clementine, grapefruit, and Valencia orange, backed by pine resin and a restrained caramel malt sweetness. The bitterness at 65 IBUs is assertive but balanced, finishing clean and dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Jai Alai compare to Stone IPA?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are hop-forward American IPAs, but Jai Alai leans more heavily into tropical and orange citrus character from its six-hop blend, while Stone IPA tends toward a more aggressively bitter, piney, and earthy profile. Jai Alai's slightly higher ABV (7.5% vs. Stone's 6.9%) also gives it a fuller body.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Jai Alai good for IPA beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Jai Alai is an excellent gateway IPA because its citrus sweetness and caramel malt backbone soften the bitterness, making it approachable despite its 65 IBU rating. It teaches the palate what a well-constructed American IPA should taste like without being punishing.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Jai Alai made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Jai Alai IPA is brewed by Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Florida. The brewery's name pays tribute to Tampa's deep-rooted cigar industry and Latin American heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Jai Alai?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spicy tacos or Thai curry, where the citrus hops cut through heat and richness. Grilled burgers with sharp cheddar, as the bitterness cleanses the palate between bites. Fish and chips, where hop resin complements fried batter. Aged gouda or Manchego cheese, which echo the beer's caramel undertones. Citrus-marinated grilled chicken, which mirrors and amplifies the beer's orange-forward character.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Jai Alai come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Jai Alai is commonly available in 12 oz cans sold in 6-packs, as well as single 19.2 oz stovepipe cans for individual servings.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Jai Alai worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Jai Alai positions as a premium-but-accessible craft IPA, sitting in the same price tier as Stone IPA and Ballast Point Sculpin while consistently earning some of the highest consumer and critic ratings in the American IPA category — strong value for a beer of this quality and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Jai Alai?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA 95-point BeerAdvocate score across thousands of reviews is not earned by accident — it reflects a beer that delivers reliably and memorably. The use of six hop varietals, including the New Zealand-grown Motueka alongside American staples like Simcoe and Amarillo, produces a citrus complexity that single- or double-hopped IPAs rarely achieve. Jai Alai manages the difficult trick of being both bold and balanced, hitting 7.5% ABV and 65 IBUs without tipping into harshness. For anyone building a craft beer repertoire or simply looking for a benchmark American IPA, this Tampa-brewed six-pack belongs on the shortlist.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cigar City Brewing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44838102106281,"sku":"30303","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/cigar-city-brewing-cigar-city-jai-alai-6pk-bottle.webp?v=1777472280"},{"product_id":"cigar-city-madura-6pk","title":"Cigar City Madura 6Pk","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCigar City Maduro Brown Ale 6-Pack\u003c\/strong\u003e is a Northern English-style brown ale from Tampa, Florida, brewed at 5.5% ABV and sold in a six-pack of 12 oz cans. This expression earned a Gold Medal at the Great American Beer Festival, validating its place among the finest American brown ales in production. Brewed with chocolate malt and flaked oats, Maduro takes its name from the dark, oily tobacco wrapper leaf — a fitting nod to Tampa's deep cigar-making heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 5.5%  |  IBU: 25  |  Origin: Tampa, Florida, USA  |  Style: Brown Ale  |  Brewery: Cigar City Brewing\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCigar City Brewing operates out of Tampa, Florida, a city historically synonymous with the cigar trade. Maduro's malt bill centers on chocolate malt and a generous proportion of flaked oats — an American twist on the traditional Northern English brown ale template. The oats serve a structural role beyond simple grain character: they impart a silky, full body that meshes the roasted, toasted, and chocolate malt components into a cohesive, layered profile. At 25 IBUs, hop bitterness stays firmly in the background, allowing the malt complexity to drive the beer from start to finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Toffee leads the nose, followed by chocolate macaroon sweetness and a faint undercurrent of roasted grain. As the beer warms, dried fruit and a subtle tobacco-like earthiness emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is semi-sweet chocolate and brown sugar, with almond and caramel developing across the mid-palate. Deeper flavors of oatmeal, cola, and roasted coffee appear as the malt profile unfolds, supported by hints of root beer barrel candy and nutshell bitterness that add dimension without harshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Dry and surprisingly clean for a beer this malt-forward, with lingering notes of coffee grounds and a whisper of sweet tobacco. The oat-driven body keeps the mouthfeel smooth right through the close.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Maduro\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eMaduro is best served at cellar temperature, around 50–55°F, in a tulip glass or English pint to let its malt aromatics open up fully. While this is fundamentally a drinking beer rather than a cocktail ingredient, it works in several beer-forward mixed drinks. A \u003cstrong\u003eBrown Ale Float\u003c\/strong\u003e pairs Maduro's chocolate and toffee notes with vanilla ice cream for a rich dessert serve. A \u003cstrong\u003eBeer-a-Misu\u003c\/strong\u003e cocktail — brown ale shaken with coffee liqueur and cream — plays off the roasted, espresso-like backbone. And a simple \u003cstrong\u003eBoilermaker\u003c\/strong\u003e alongside a pour of bourbon amplifies the caramel and toasted grain notes shared by both.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eCool-weather evening sessions when lighter styles feel out of season\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIntroducing craft beer drinkers to malt-forward styles beyond pale ales and IPAs\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with a backyard barbecue or smoked meats\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBuilding a mixed six-pack gift for a brown ale or porter enthusiast\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Maduro taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Maduro delivers semi-sweet chocolate, toffee, brown sugar, and almond flavors wrapped in a silky oat-driven body, finishing dry with coffee grounds and subtle tobacco character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Maduro compare to Firestone Walker Velvet Merlin?\u003c\/strong\u003e Velvet Merlin is an oatmeal stout that tends darker and more roast-forward, while Maduro is a brown ale with a lighter body and more emphasis on toffee and chocolate sweetness over char. Both use oats to build mouthfeel, but Maduro sits at a more sessionable 5.5% ABV.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Maduro good for beginners?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — its 5.5% ABV, low 25 IBU bitterness, and approachable chocolate-and-toffee sweetness make it an excellent entry point for drinkers exploring darker beer styles for the first time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Maduro made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Maduro is brewed by Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Florida. The brewery draws its identity from Tampa's historic Ybor City cigar district, and Maduro's name references the dark maduro tobacco wrapper leaf.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Maduro?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked brisket or pulled pork complements the roasted malt and toffee notes. Dark chocolate desserts echo the beer's cocoa character. Sharp cheddar or aged Gouda stands up to the malt richness. Pecan pie mirrors the nutty, caramel undertones. Mole-sauced dishes share Maduro's layered chocolate-and-spice complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Maduro come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Maduro is commonly available in six-packs of 12 oz cans and is also found on draft at select locations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Maduro worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Maduro positions as a flagship craft brown ale at a standard six-pack price point, and its GABF Gold Medal pedigree delivers strong value relative to other award-winning craft offerings in the category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Maduro?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eA Great American Beer Festival Gold Medal is not awarded lightly, and Maduro earned that recognition by doing something genuinely uncommon — building a brown ale with enough malt depth and textural complexity to hold the attention of seasoned craft drinkers while remaining approachable at 5.5% ABV. The flaked oats in the malt bill are the key differentiator, creating a silky body that binds chocolate, toffee, and roasted grain into a unified whole rather than a series of disconnected flavors. In a market crowded with hop-driven styles, Maduro stands as one of the strongest arguments for what malt-forward brewing can achieve when executed with precision.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cigar City Brewing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44838102204585,"sku":"30824","price":12.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/cigar-city-brewing-cigar-city-madura-6pk-bottle.webp?v=1777991154"},{"product_id":"cigar-city-white-oak-jai-alai-4pk","title":"Cigar City White Oak Jai Alai 4Pk","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCigar City White Oak Jai Alai 4-Pack\u003c\/strong\u003e is an oak-aged American IPA from Tampa, Florida, brewed at 7.5% ABV and sold in a four-pack. Rated 93 on BeerAdvocate across more than 2,500 reviews, this expression stands out in a category where oak aging remains a rarity — most breweries reserve barrel treatment for stouts and porters, not hop-forward IPAs.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 7.5%  |  Origin: Tampa, Florida  |  Style: Oak-Aged American IPA  |  IBU: 70  |  Brewery: Cigar City Brewing\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eCigar City Brewing, founded in 2009 in Tampa, Florida, built its reputation on Jai Alai IPA — one of the most recognized craft IPAs in the Southeast. White Oak Jai Alai takes that established base beer and introduces white oak spirals during conditioning, allowing the wood's tannins, vanillins, and lactones to integrate with the hop-forward profile. The oak serves a dual purpose: it contributes flavor complexity while tempering the 70 IBU bitterness and drying out the body through natural tannin extraction, producing a structurally different beer from the original Jai Alai.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e Vanilla and toasted coconut rise first, followed by musty oak undertones and a layer of bold citrus — grapefruit and tangerine — carried over from the base IPA. A faint dill note, characteristic of American oak, emerges as the beer warms.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is creamy with pronounced vanilla and rich oak, giving way to caramel malt sweetness at mid-palate. White pepper and dill thread through the bitterness, which sits noticeably softer than the standard Jai Alai, while citrus hops — grapefruit and tangerine — push through the oak influence at the peak.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Decidedly dry, with oak tannins pulling moisture from the palate in a way more typical of wine than beer. A trace of vanilla lingers in the background, but the dominant impression is clean, tannic dryness with fading hop bitterness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink White Oak Jai Alai\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003ePour into a tulip glass or snifter at 45–50°F to let the oak aromatics open up fully; drinking straight from the can mutes the vanilla and coconut complexity. The oak backbone and drier body also make this a strong candidate for pairing-driven drinking rather than cocktail mixing — treat it like a sommelier would treat a tannic white wine, matching it with food that benefits from the beer's structure.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eIPA drinkers looking to explore oak-aged variations of a familiar style\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHosting a craft beer tasting flight alongside standard Jai Alai to compare the oak influence\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to a beer enthusiast who gravitates toward barrel-aged or wood-conditioned styles\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing with grilled or smoked meats where the oak tannins can match the char\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does White Oak Jai Alai taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e It leads with vanilla, toasted coconut, and oak over a foundation of citrus hops and caramel malt, finishing noticeably dry from white oak tannins. The overall impression is a creamier, softer, and more wood-influenced take on a West Coast–style IPA.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does White Oak Jai Alai compare to Great Divide Rumble?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are oak-aged IPAs, a relatively uncommon style, and both use oak to soften hop bitterness and add vanilla character. White Oak Jai Alai leans drier and more tannin-forward, while Rumble has historically presented a slightly fuller body with more pronounced caramel sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs White Oak Jai Alai good for sipping neat?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — poured into a proper glass at cellar temperature, it rewards slow, contemplative drinking in a way the original Jai Alai does not, thanks to its layered oak aromatics and drier finish.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is White Oak Jai Alai made?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is brewed by Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Florida. Cigar City was founded in 2009 and remains one of the most prominent craft breweries in the southeastern United States.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with White Oak Jai Alai?\u003c\/strong\u003e Smoked brisket or pulled pork, where the oak tannins complement smoke and char. Sharp aged cheddar, which mirrors the beer's dryness. Grilled shrimp with citrus butter, playing off the hop-derived grapefruit notes. Roasted chicken with herbs, where the dill-like oak character finds a natural match. Dark chocolate with sea salt, balancing the vanilla sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does White Oak Jai Alai come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e It is commonly available as a four-pack of cans, which is the standard retail format from Cigar City Brewing for this expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs White Oak Jai Alai worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e It positions in the premium craft IPA tier, and the oak-aging step — uncommon for the style — adds genuine complexity that justifies the modest premium over standard Jai Alai. The 93-point BeerAdvocate rating across thousands of reviews suggests strong consensus on its quality.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy White Oak Jai Alai?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eOak-aged IPAs remain one of the least common wood-treated beer styles; most breweries limit barrel or oak conditioning to darker, maltier beers like stouts and porters. White Oak Jai Alai challenges that convention by proving that hop bitterness and oak tannins can coexist — and even complement each other — when integrated carefully through white oak spiral conditioning. The result earned silver medals at both the 2011 Best Florida Beer competition and the United States Open Beer Championships, and it has maintained a 93-point rating on BeerAdvocate over years of production. For drinkers who already know and appreciate the original Jai Alai, the White Oak version reveals what that familiar recipe can become when given a fundamentally different structural backbone.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cigar City Brewing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44838102270121,"sku":"30753","price":14.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}]},{"product_id":"cigar-city-florida-man-6pk","title":"Cigar City Florida Man 6Pk","description":"\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eCigar City Florida Man 6PK\u003c\/strong\u003e is a 6-pack of Double IPA brewed by Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Florida, at 8.5% ABV. What sets Florida Man apart from the crowded imperial IPA field is a proprietary Double IPA yeast strain that produces delicate peach esters, layered over a hop bill featuring Azacca, Citra, El Dorado, and Mandarina Bavaria. The beer holds an 88 score on BeerAdvocate from over 660 ratings.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eQuick Facts:\u003c\/strong\u003e ABV: 8.5%  |  Origin: Tampa, Florida  |  Style: Double IPA \/ Imperial IPA  |  Brewery: Cigar City Brewing\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eProduction \u0026amp; Heritage\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eCigar City Brewing was founded in 2009 in Tampa, Florida, and quickly became one of the most recognized craft breweries in the Southeast, anchored by flagship releases like Jai Alai IPA. Florida Man builds on that hop-forward reputation by stepping up to double IPA strength with a four-hop blend — Azacca, Citra, El Dorado, and Mandarina Bavaria — selected for overlapping citrus and tropical fruit characteristics. The grain bill incorporates Canadian honey malt, which provides a subtle sweetness and light body that prevents the beer from becoming overly heavy despite its 8.5% ABV. The defining production choice is the brewery's use of a specialized Double IPA yeast strain engineered to throw stone fruit esters, particularly peach, adding a fermentation-derived layer of complexity that pure hop character alone cannot achieve.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eAroma:\u003c\/strong\u003e The nose opens with bright grapefruit peel and mango, then shifts into mildly tropical notes of papaya and guava. A subtle peach ester from the specialty yeast emerges as the beer warms, with faint pine resin underneath.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTaste:\u003c\/strong\u003e The entry is juicy and citrus-driven, dominated by grapefruit and tangerine. At mid-palate, candied tropical fruit takes over — think ripe mango and pineapple — supported by the honey malt's gentle sweetness. Bitterness builds steadily but remains balanced, never veering into harsh territory, with a piney hop bite that anchors the finish of each sip.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFinish:\u003c\/strong\u003e Medium-long, with lingering grapefruit rind bitterness and a dry, resinous quality. A whisper of peach and light grain sweetness rounds out the aftertaste.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eHow to Drink Florida Man\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003ePour Florida Man into a tulip glass or IPA glass at around 45–50°F to let the hop aromatics bloom without losing the beer's structure. This Double IPA drinks best fresh, so don't cellar it — consume within a few months of packaging for peak hop expression. For a beer cocktail twist, Florida Man works well in a \u003cstrong\u003eHop Shandy\u003c\/strong\u003e blended with fresh lemonade, where its grapefruit character amplifies the citrus base. It also holds up in a \u003cstrong\u003eMichelada\u003c\/strong\u003e variation, where the hop bitterness stands up to hot sauce and lime. A \u003cstrong\u003eBeermosa\u003c\/strong\u003e with fresh-squeezed orange juice plays off the tropical fruit notes and tempers the ABV for a brunch serve.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eBest For\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cul\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eHop-forward IPA enthusiasts looking to step up to imperial strength\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eBackyard cookouts and tailgates where a bold, flavorful beer sets the tone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003eGifting to a craft beer collector who appreciates Florida's brewing scene\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003cli\u003ePairing alongside spicy or grilled foods that need a beer with backbone\u003c\/li\u003e\n\u003c\/ul\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eFrequently Asked Questions\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat does Florida Man taste like?\u003c\/strong\u003e Florida Man delivers a bold citrus-forward profile dominated by grapefruit and tropical fruit, with a distinctive peach note from its specialty yeast and balanced bitterness from the four-hop blend.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eHow does Florida Man compare to Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA?\u003c\/strong\u003e Both are imperial IPAs in the 8.5–9% ABV range, but Florida Man leans more tropical and citrus-driven thanks to its New World hop selection, while Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA uses a continual hopping process that produces a more caramel-forward, resinous character. Florida Man's specialty yeast also contributes fruit esters that 90 Minute's cleaner fermentation profile does not emphasize.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Florida Man good for sipping on its own?\u003c\/strong\u003e Yes — the Canadian honey malt and balanced bitterness make it a smooth drinker for a Double IPA, though the 8.5% ABV warrants pacing; a tulip glass pour enhances the aromatic experience.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhere is Florida Man made?\u003c\/strong\u003e Florida Man is brewed by Cigar City Brewing in Tampa, Florida, a brewery founded in 2009 that has become one of the most prominent craft producers in the American South.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat foods pair well with Florida Man?\u003c\/strong\u003e Spicy jerk chicken benefits from the citrus hop oils cutting through the heat. Grilled shrimp tacos with mango salsa echo the beer's tropical notes. A sharp aged cheddar contrasts with the hop bitterness beautifully. Thai green curry plays off the peach esters and citrus hops. Smoked brisket pairs well, as the malt sweetness bridges into the meat's char.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eWhat sizes does Florida Man come in?\u003c\/strong\u003e Florida Man is available in a standard 6-pack format; individual cans may also appear in the brewery's mixed packs depending on seasonal availability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eIs Florida Man worth the price?\u003c\/strong\u003e Florida Man positions as a mid-tier craft Double IPA, delivering hop complexity and a distinctive yeast character that justify its place among similarly priced imperial IPAs from established regional breweries.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003e\u003cu\u003eWhy Florida Man?\u003c\/u\u003e\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003eThe defining edge here is the proprietary Double IPA yeast strain — a production choice most imperial IPAs simply do not make. Where many Double IPAs rely entirely on hop variety and quantity, Florida Man builds a secondary flavor dimension through fermentation-derived peach esters that complement rather than compete with the citrus and tropical hops. The four-hop combination of Azacca, Citra, El Dorado, and Mandarina Bavaria covers a wide aromatic spectrum without muddying the profile, and the Canadian honey malt keeps the body approachable at a strength where many peers turn syrupy. With an 88 on BeerAdvocate and nearly 91,000 check-ins on Untappd, it has earned broad credibility among hop-focused drinkers who have no shortage of Double IPAs to choose from.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cigar City Brewing","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":44839239319721,"sku":"38731","price":13.99,"currency_code":"USD","in_stock":false}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0680\/1024\/6313\/files\/Cigar-City-Florida-Man-6__59273.jpg?v=1730518451"}],"url":"https:\/\/theliquorbarn.com\/collections\/cigar-city-brewing.oembed","provider":"The Liquor Barn","version":"1.0","type":"link"}