Odells Mnt Standard – Colorado's Bold Craft IPA Excellence

Updated → August 2025

Discover Odells Mnt Standard, a masterfully crafted Colorado IPA delivering perfect hop balance with citrus and pine notes, available at Wagon Wheel Liquors in Durango.

The Craft Beer Revolution in Colorado

Colorado stands as a beacon in the American craft beer movement, with over 400 breweries calling the Centennial State home. The state's pure Rocky Mountain water, adventurous spirit, and elevation create the perfect environment for brewing excellence. Odells Mnt Standard represents this tradition brilliantly, embodying the innovative approach that makes Colorado craft beer legendary worldwide.

The rise of India Pale Ales transformed American beer culture, introducing bold hop flavors that challenged traditional brewing norms. Colorado brewers embraced this movement wholeheartedly, creating distinctive IPAs that balance aggressive hop profiles with drinkability. Mountain Standard IPA exemplifies this Colorado approach, delivering complexity without overwhelming the palate.

Odell Brewing's Mountain Legacy

Founded in 1989 in Fort Collins, Odell Brewing Company began as a small family operation with a passion for English-style ales. Doug, Wynne, and Corkie Odell started their journey in a converted 1915 grain elevator, brewing just under 400 barrels in their first year. Today, Odell Brewing stands among Colorado's most respected craft breweries, maintaining their commitment to quality while expanding their reach across multiple states.

The creation of Odells Mnt Standard reflects the brewery's evolution from traditional English styles to innovative American craft beers. This IPA showcases their mastery of hop-forward brewing while maintaining the balance and drinkability that defines their portfolio. The brewery's location at the foothills of the Rocky Mountains influences every aspect of their brewing philosophy.

Mountain Standard IPA Profile

Odells Mnt Standard delivers a harmonious blend of citrus, pine, and floral hop characteristics. This West Coast-inspired IPA features a crystal-clear golden appearance with a persistent white head that releases aromatic hop oils with every sip. The beer's 6.5% ABV provides enough backbone to support the generous hop additions without becoming heavy or cloying.

The malt bill creates a clean, slightly sweet foundation that allows the hops to shine. Premium two-row barley provides fermentable sugars while specialty malts add subtle caramel notes that complement the hop bitterness. This careful balance distinguishes Mountain Standard from more aggressive IPAs, making it approachable for newcomers while satisfying experienced hop enthusiasts.

Hop Varieties and Flavor Complexity

The hop selection in Odells Mnt Standard showcases both classic and contemporary varieties. Cascade hops provide the signature citrus and floral notes that define American IPAs. Centennial hops contribute additional citrus character along with subtle pine undertones. Modern hop varieties add tropical fruit nuances that create layers of complexity.

The brewing team employs multiple hop additions throughout the brewing process. Bittering hops added early in the boil provide the IPA's characteristic bite. Late-addition hops contribute flavor without excessive bitterness. Dry-hopping after fermentation maximizes aromatic intensity, creating the enticing nose that greets you when opening a fresh can or bottle.

The Art of IPA Brewing

Creating exceptional IPAs like Odells Mnt Standard requires precise control throughout the brewing process. The journey begins with carefully selected malts milled to exact specifications. The mash temperature profile extracts fermentable sugars while preserving body and mouthfeel. Odell's state-of-the-art brewhouse ensures consistency batch after batch.

Fermentation temperature control proves critical for IPA production. Too warm, and unwanted esters develop. Too cool, and the yeast struggles to attenuate properly. Odell's fermentation specialists monitor each batch carefully, ensuring the yeast produces clean flavors that showcase the hops. The result delivers the crisp, refreshing character that makes Mountain Standard so drinkable.

Taste Characteristics and Mouthfeel

Upon first taste, Odells Mnt Standard greets the palate with bright citrus flavors reminiscent of grapefruit and orange zest. These initial notes transition smoothly into piney, resinous flavors that provide depth and complexity. The mid-palate reveals subtle malt sweetness that balances the hop bitterness perfectly.

The finish remains crisp and clean, with lingering hop bitterness that invites another sip. Carbonation levels enhance the refreshing quality without creating excessive foam or bloat. The medium body provides substance without heaviness, making this IPA suitable for multiple pints during social gatherings or outdoor adventures.

Perfect Food Pairings

The bold flavors in Odells Mnt Standard complement a wide range of cuisines. Spicy foods benefit from the beer's hop bitterness, which cuts through heat while the carbonation cleanses the palate. Mexican dishes like fish tacos, carne asada, or chile rellenos pair exceptionally well. Thai curries and Indian vindaloos also match beautifully with this IPA's assertive character.

For cheese pairings, sharp cheddars and aged goudas stand up to the hop intensity. Blue cheeses create interesting flavor contrasts, with the beer's citrus notes playing against the cheese's pungency. Grilled foods develop caramelized flavors that echo the malt backbone, making barbecued meats, grilled vegetables, and charred pizzas excellent companions.

Serving Temperature and Glassware

Optimal enjoyment of Odells Mnt Standard occurs between 45-50°F. This temperature range allows hop aromatics to volatilize while maintaining refreshing drinkability. Serving too cold mutes the complex flavors, while excessive warmth emphasizes alcohol and diminishes the crisp finish.

Glassware selection enhances the drinking experience significantly. IPA glasses with ridged bases agitate the beer, releasing additional hop aromatics. Tulip glasses concentrate the aroma while providing adequate headspace. Even a standard pint glass works well, though specialty glassware maximizes sensory enjoyment. Always ensure glasses are clean and free from soap residue that can affect head retention.

Seasonal Availability and Freshness

While Odells Mnt Standard remains available year-round, freshness plays a crucial role in hop-forward beers. IPAs taste best within 90 days of packaging, when hop oils remain vibrant and aromatic. Check packaging dates when purchasing, and prioritize recent production runs for optimal flavor.

Seasonal variations in hop harvests can create subtle differences between batches. Fresh hop seasons in late summer and early fall often produce particularly aromatic beers. Winter batches may emphasize different hop characteristics as brewers adjust recipes based on ingredient availability. These variations add interest for dedicated fans who notice nuanced differences throughout the year.

Sustainable Brewing Practices

Odell Brewing demonstrates environmental stewardship through numerous sustainability initiatives. Their solar array generates significant brewery power, reducing carbon footprint. Water conservation efforts include advanced treatment systems that minimize usage and ensure clean discharge. These practices ensure Odells Mnt Standard represents responsible brewing.

Spent grain from the brewing process feeds local livestock, creating a circular economy. The brewery's commitment extends to packaging choices, with aluminum cans providing infinite recyclability. Employee bike programs and local sourcing initiatives further demonstrate their dedication to environmental and community responsibility.

Durango's Craft Beer Scene

Durango's vibrant craft beer culture makes it an ideal location for enjoying Odells Mnt Standard. The city's outdoor recreation opportunities pair perfectly with refreshing craft beers. After hiking, biking, or skiing, locals and visitors alike appreciate quality IPAs that celebrate Colorado's brewing heritage.

Wagon Wheel Liquors serves as a hub for craft beer enthusiasts seeking variety and expertise. Their curated selection includes local favorites alongside respected brands like Odell. The knowledgeable staff provides recommendations based on individual preferences, helping customers discover new favorites while stocking up on trusted classics.

Storage and Cellaring Tips

Proper storage maximizes the lifespan of Odells Mnt Standard. Store bottles and cans upright in a cool, dark location. Refrigeration slows hop degradation, maintaining peak flavors longer. Avoid temperature fluctuations that stress the beer and accelerate aging.

Unlike many beer styles, IPAs generally don't improve with age. The bright hop character that defines Mountain Standard fades over time, replaced by muted flavors and potential oxidation notes. Purchase quantities you'll consume within a few weeks, ensuring every beer tastes as the brewers intended.

Purchase Options at Wagon Wheel

Wagon Wheel Liquors offers Odells Mnt Standard in convenient packaging options. The 12-pack cans provide excellent value for regular enjoyment or sharing with friends. Individual cans allow sampling before committing to larger quantities. The store's competitive pricing and frequent promotions make stocking up affordable.

Online ordering through Wagon Wheel's website streamlines the shopping experience. Browse availability, check current pricing, and arrange convenient pickup times. Their SMS notification system alerts customers to special deals and new arrivals, ensuring you never miss restocking opportunities for favorite beers.

Customer Favorites and Reviews

Regular customers at Wagon Wheel Liquors consistently praise Odells Mnt Standard for its reliability and flavor. Many appreciate the beer's balance, noting it satisfies hop cravings without palate fatigue. The reasonable alcohol content allows enjoyment throughout afternoons without overwhelming effects.

Staff recommendations often highlight Mountain Standard as an excellent gateway IPA for those exploring hop-forward styles. Its approachability combined with authentic IPA character makes it suitable for diverse preferences. Repeat purchases demonstrate customer satisfaction, with many considering it their go-to IPA choice.

Why Choose Mountain Standard

In a crowded IPA market, Odells Mnt Standard distinguishes itself through consistent quality and thoughtful brewing. The beer represents everything great about Colorado craft brewing: innovation, quality ingredients, environmental consciousness, and community connection. Each sip delivers the promise of mountain adventure and brewing excellence.

Whether you're a seasoned IPA enthusiast or curious newcomer, Mountain Standard offers an authentic craft beer experience. Its availability at Wagon Wheel Liquors ensures easy access to this Colorado classic. The combination of Odell's brewing expertise and Wagon Wheel's curated selection creates the perfect opportunity to discover or rediscover this exceptional IPA.