The "I Don't Like IPAs" Review: Devils Backbone Naughty or Nice

Look, we all know where I stand. Generally, if it has "IPA" on the label, I’m headed in the opposite direction. But my boss handed me a free can, and as the old saying goes: if it’s free, it’s for me. I went into this expecting a glass of liquid pine needles and regret. I came away... actually kind of surprised?

Score: 5.2

Location: Lexington, VA

ABV:7.1

The "Not So Bitter" Truth

Usually, IPAs feel like a punch to the tongue with all that heavy, resinous bitterness. Naughty or Nice is a "Cold IPA," which apparently is code for "IPA for people who actually like crisp drinks."

• The Vibe: It looks like a standard lager clear, gold, and bubbly.

• The Taste: Surprisingly clean. It doesn't have that thick, "chewy" malt taste that usually makes me tap out after three sips.

• The Surprise: While it definitely smells like a fruit basket (pineapples and citrus everywhere), it finishes fast. It doesn't overstay its welcome on your palate.

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Is it a Conversion?

Let’s not get ahead of ourselves. I’m not running out to buy a flat-brim hat and start a hop farm. There’s still that signature IPA "bite" at the end that reminds me why I usually stick to my usuals. However, compared to some of the absolute juice bombs or bitter fests I’ve tried in the past, this was actually manageable. It was almost... good?

The "Free Beer" Disclaimer: Everything tastes a little better when you didn't pay for it. If I had dropped $14 on a six pack, I might be grumbling, but as a gift from the boss? Not bad at all.

The Final Verdict

If you’re like me and you think IPAs usually taste like lawn clippings, this might be the one "hoppy" beer you can actually finish without making a face. It’s a nice change of pace, but I'm still keeping my "Non-IPA Fan" club membership card for now.

Final Score: 5.2/10 (Translation: The highest honor an IPA can receive from someone who hates them.)