Blood Orange Pales

There’s something quietly wonderful about adding blood orange to a pale ale. It’s like tuning the beer to a brighter frequency without losing its soul. Mad Squirrel’s blood orange IPA uses citrus not as a gimmick, but as a lift, enhancing what’s already there.

Blood orange brings more than simple sweetness. It carries a deeper, almost berry-like character with soft floral notes. Paired with hops, it creates a natural balance where bitterness meets gentle acidity, giving a crisp, refreshing finish rather than a harsh bite.

On the palate, it unfolds in layers. A flash of zesty citrus leads, followed by a richer, juicier core reminiscent of orange marmalade with a hint of red fruit. The malt backbone keeps it grounded, firmly in beer territory.

Seasonally, it’s spot on. As days grow lighter, blood orange offers brightness with warmth, bridging winter and spring in one vivid, citrus-kissed pint. 🍊