Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA – Bold Colorado Craft Beer Excellence

Updated → August 2025

Experience the full-bodied richness of Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA, a 9.2% ABV powerhouse featuring tropical pineapple and pear notes balanced with piney aromatics. Available now at Wagon Wheel Liquors in downtown Durango for pickup or delivery.

The Colorado Craft Beer Revolution

Colorado's craft beer industry generates an impressive $2.5 billion annually for the state economy, establishing the region as America's undisputed craft beer capital. With over 400 independent breweries operating across the state in 2025, Colorado maintains the second-highest brewery count per capita nationwide. This thriving ecosystem creates more than 20,000 direct jobs while supporting countless peripheral businesses from hop farms to distribution networks.

The recent inaugural Colorado Brewers Cup competition highlighted the exceptional quality emerging from local operations, with 134 breweries submitting 650 different beers across 26 categories. This level of participation demonstrates the competitive excellence driving innovation throughout the state's brewing community. Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA represents this commitment to quality, emerging from Durango's pioneering craft beer scene that helped establish Colorado's reputation decades ago.

Understanding the Hazy IPA Phenomenon

The hazy IPA revolution transformed American craft beer culture by prioritizing hop flavor and aroma over traditional bitterness. Unlike West Coast IPAs that emphasize sharp, piney bitterness ratings often exceeding 70 IBUs, hazy IPAs create a softer, more approachable experience through specialized brewing techniques. These methods include heavy dry-hopping during fermentation, using specific yeast strains that remain suspended in the beer, and incorporating wheat or oats to enhance body and mouthfeel.

This style originated in New England with legendary breweries like The Alchemist and Hill Farmstead pioneering the cloudy, juice-like appearance that initially confused traditionalists. Today, hazy IPAs dominate taproom sales nationwide, with double versions like Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA pushing alcohol content and hop intensity to new heights while maintaining the style's signature smoothness.

Current Market Statistics & Growth

IPAs now account for approximately 35% of all craft beer sales nationally, with hazy variants representing the fastest-growing subcategory. The double IPA segment specifically shows remarkable strength, growing 12% year-over-year despite overall craft beer market challenges. Consumer preference data reveals that 68% of craft beer drinkers actively seek out new hazy IPA releases monthly, demonstrating sustained demand for innovation within this category.

Colorado breweries produced over 1.5 million barrels of craft beer in 2024, with IPAs comprising nearly 40% of total production volume. The state's breweries export their products to all 50 states, generating substantial tax revenue while promoting Colorado's brand nationally. Premium offerings like Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA command higher price points, typically ranging from $12-18 per six-pack, reflecting consumer willingness to pay for quality and craftsmanship.

Head-to-Head Beer Comparison

Ska Brewing's Durango Legacy

Founded in 1995, Ska Brewing pioneered Colorado's canned craft beer movement while most breweries still focused exclusively on bottles. The company's founders, passionate about both brewing and ska music, built their operation from a small Durango warehouse into one of Colorado's most recognizable craft brands. Their commitment to quality earned them numerous awards including multiple Great American Beer Festival medals across various categories.

The brewery's World Headquarters in Durango serves as both production facility and community gathering space, featuring a popular tasting room and restaurant that attracts locals and tourists alike. Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA emerged from extensive recipe development, representing the brewery's response to overwhelming customer demand for a bigger, bolder version of their successful Hazy IPA line.

Inside the Brewing Process

Creating Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA requires precise temperature control and timing throughout the brewing process. The grain bill incorporates substantial wheat and oat percentages, creating the signature hazy appearance and silky texture. Brewers add hops at multiple stages, beginning with minimal bittering additions during the boil, followed by massive whirlpool additions that extract flavor compounds without harsh bitterness.

The critical dry-hopping phase occurs during active fermentation when yeast activity helps biotransform hop compounds into unique tropical flavors. Ska's brewers add pounds of premium hops directly to fermentation tanks, allowing essential oils to infuse the beer over several days. The specialized yeast strain remains intentionally suspended, contributing to both haziness and the distinctive fruity ester profile that defines this style.

Triple Hop Profile Analysis

Idaho 7 hops contribute the foundational tropical character to Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA, delivering intense pineapple and mango notes alongside subtle pine undertones. This relatively new hop variety quickly became essential for hazy IPA production due to its unique combination of fruit-forward aromatics and restrained bitterness. The high essential oil content ensures flavor persistence throughout the drinking experience.

Azacca hops layer additional tropical complexity with distinct papaya and orange characteristics that complement Idaho 7's profile perfectly. Named after the Haitian god of agriculture, these hops provide bright citrus notes that lift the overall flavor profile. Strata hops complete the trilogy, contributing passion fruit and cannabis-like dank notes that add depth and intrigue to each sip. This carefully selected combination creates harmony between fruit sweetness and hop intensity.

Tasting Notes & Flavor Journey

Upon pouring Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA, the golden orange hue immediately signals the flavor adventure ahead. The aroma bursts with fresh pineapple and ripe pear, underscored by resinous pine that prevents the fruit from becoming cloying. The first sip delivers a wave of tropical fruit flavors, with pineapple and mango dominating the initial impression before citrus notes emerge mid-palate.

The 9.2% ABV integrates seamlessly into the flavor profile, providing warmth without alcohol burn. The full body and creamy texture coat the palate, allowing hop flavors to linger pleasantly. The finish balances sweetness with moderate bitterness, avoiding the harsh astringency common in traditional double IPAs. Each subsequent sip reveals new flavor layers, from stone fruit sweetness to herbal hop complexity, making this beer equally suitable for thoughtful sipping or social drinking.

Perfect Food Pairings

The bold flavors and high alcohol content of Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA make it exceptionally versatile with food. Spicy cuisines particularly benefit from the beer's fruit-forward profile and palate-coating texture. Thai curries, Indian vindaloo, and Mexican chile-based dishes find perfect balance with the tropical hop notes. The beer's natural sweetness tames heat while the carbonation cleanses the palate between bites.

Rich, fatty foods also pair wonderfully, as the beer's bitterness and carbonation cut through heavy textures. Barbecued meats, especially those with fruit-based glazes, create harmonious flavor combinations. Sharp aged cheeses like extra-sharp cheddar or aged gouda complement the hop intensity while creamy blue cheeses contrast beautifully with the tropical fruit notes. For dessert pairings, consider tropical fruit tarts, key lime pie, or coconut-based sweets that echo the beer's inherent flavors.

Optimal Serving Suggestions

Serve Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA at 45-50°F to maximize flavor expression while maintaining refreshing qualities. Colder temperatures suppress hop aromatics, while warmer serving allows alcohol heat to dominate. Use a tulip or snifter glass to concentrate aromatics and showcase the hazy appearance. Pour moderately to create a one-inch head that releases hop oils and enhances the aromatic experience.

When sharing with friends, consider serving alongside other Ska offerings to showcase the brewery's range. Start with lighter options like Mexican Logger before progressing to Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA to prevent palate fatigue. The 12-ounce can format ensures optimal freshness and makes sharing easy, whether enjoying at home or bringing to gatherings. Remember that the 9.2% ABV packs considerably more alcohol than standard beers, so pace consumption accordingly.

Year-Round Enjoyment Tips

While many associate IPAs with warm weather, Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA offers year-round appeal. Summer calls for outdoor enjoyment, whether camping in Colorado's mountains or relaxing on patios. The tropical flavors complement grilled foods and provide refreshing relief from heat. Pack cans in coolers for river trips or hiking adventures, appreciating the lightweight, unbreakable packaging.

Winter months transform this beer into a warming companion for indoor gatherings. The higher alcohol content provides pleasant warmth while tropical flavors offer psychological escape from cold weather. Pair with hearty stews, roasted meats, or holiday appetizer spreads. The beer's complexity makes it ideal for contemplative fireside sipping or lively game-day celebrations. Spring and fall present perfect moderate temperatures for fully appreciating the nuanced flavor profile without weather extremes affecting perception.

Storage & Freshness Guide

Hop-forward beers like Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA demand proper storage to maintain peak flavor. Store cans upright in a cool, dark location, ideally between 38-55°F. Avoid temperature fluctuations that accelerate aging and degrade hop compounds. While the canned format protects against light damage, extended heat exposure still causes flavor deterioration.

Check the canning date printed on each six-pack to ensure freshness. Optimal consumption occurs within 90 days of packaging, though the beer remains enjoyable for several months when properly stored. Hop aromatics fade first, followed by flavor intensity, so prioritize drinking fresher stock. Never freeze the beer, as this damages proteins and creates permanent haze beyond the intended style characteristics. Refrigerate cans at least two hours before serving for ideal temperature.

Local Availability & Hours

Wagon Wheel Liquors maintains consistent stock of Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA alongside the complete Ska portfolio. Located conveniently at 30 Town Plaza in downtown Durango, the store offers ample free parking for quick pickups. Operating hours accommodate various schedules: Monday through Saturday 8:30am-10:00pm and Sunday 9:00am-9:00pm. The knowledgeable staff, with over 100 years combined industry experience, provides personalized recommendations based on individual preferences.

Weekly tastings every Wednesday from 4-6pm often feature Colorado craft selections, providing opportunities to sample before purchasing. The store's commitment to supporting local breweries ensures fresh inventory rotation and access to limited releases. Their strategic downtown location makes stopping by convenient whether running errands, heading to nearby restaurants, or exploring Durango's historic district.

Wagon Wheel Customer Benefits

Wagon Wheel Liquors rewards loyal customers through multiple programs designed to enhance value and discovery. The daily Happy Hour special from 4-6pm Monday through Friday offers 5% off all beer purchases when paying with cash or local check. This discount makes premium selections like Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA even more accessible for regular enjoyment.

The store's Bourbon of the Month Club includes quarterly VIP tastings at The Bookcase and Barber, priority waitlist placement, and 15% off all bourbon purchases. While focused on whiskey, members often discover craft beer pairings during exclusive events. The Wine of the Month Club provides similar benefits for oenophiles, with sommelier-selected bottles and special purchasing opportunities. These programs demonstrate Wagon Wheel's commitment to education and community building beyond simple retail transactions.

Purchase Options & Delivery

Purchasing Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA from Wagon Wheel Liquors couldn't be more convenient. The store offers free local delivery for customers preferring contactless service or unable to visit in person. Phone orders at (970) 247-1655 receive the same personalized attention as in-store visits, with staff happy to suggest complementary products or answer questions about current inventory.

Special event planning becomes effortless with Wagon Wheel's bulk ordering capabilities and expert consultation. Whether stocking for weddings, corporate events, or private parties, the team calculates quantities and suggests variety based on guest preferences. Mixed cases combining Ska Brewing Double Hazy IPA with other local favorites create memorable experiences while supporting Colorado breweries.