What the hell is a Voodoo Ranger? I know what voodoo is, sticking pins in doll. I know what a Ranger is. Ranger Smith chased Yogi Bear all over Jellystone Park. According to their marketing group, the selection of their skeleton mascot, which has nothing to do with Voodoo or Rangers, was that they “embraced the 1960’s-70’s rock culture. We were also inspired by unassuming leaders (or witty anti-heroes) that emerged as inspirational icons, almost in-spite of themselves.” What the hell does that mean? Sounds like another plot by the marketing mavens to hype a product and make off with our hard earned savings. Apparently it has worked and the Voodoo Ranger line of beers is the fastest growing craft beer on the US market. Steam Whistle has partnered with New Belgium to bring it into Canada.
So what does this Juicy Haze (not hazy, just Haze) IPA taste like? Surprisingly non-hoppy and easy drinking for a 7%. Refreshing on a hot day, but most beers would be wouldn’t they? They say it is “bursting with tropical aromas and juicy fruit flavours.” I found it fruity in a non-descript way, or maybe floral, or both? A little bit fizzy. Really designed for IPA lovers but marketed and trying to be accessible to all. I guess that is their challenge for non-IPA drinkers, their slogan is to “Live Rangerously”. Sounds like they should have Scooby Doo as a mascot to rhyme off their slogan, rather than their stylish skeleton. It was an OK quaff, not my favourite IPA, but trendy.
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