Beer of the week: Bodysurfing from Rip Current Brewing

April 9, 2019 6 AM PT

Beer Name: Bodysurfing

Brewery: Rip Current Brewing

Style: Belgian-style Blonde

ABV: 7%

A longtime veteran of the San Diego craft beer scene, Rip Current and co-owner/brewmaster Paul Sangster have won a slew of medals for true-to-style, high quality beers that consistently set standards. Known and adored for the deliciously balanced Lupulin Lust IIPA, the brewery also introduces locals to a style outside the typical San Diego wheelhouse. As a top-selling, not hop-forward beer, the Bodysurfing Belgian Blonde brings a European classic to saturated and over-hopped palates countywide. PACIFIC chatted with Sangster to get the lowdown on the Beer of the Week.

Why a Belgian blonde? “We wanted to have a Belgian beer that wasn’t too daunting for someone to try,” Sangster said. “Some of the dark ones are scarier for people. So we brew it in a way with yeast character but is approachable.”

What’s in it? “Trappist yeast used by Westmalle, pilsner malt from Germany, Czech and German hops,” he said, “and we adjust our water to match Belgian water.”

What to expect: “A balance of light fruits, like pear and citrus, with black pepper,” Sangster said.

The perfect pairing? “Because of the spice,” he said, “I like it with Mexican food, like a carne asada or pollo asada burrito.”

This beer gal’s take: This is a beer for people who say, “I don’t like Belgians, I think it’s the yeast.” This beer is light and refreshing with perfectly balanced flavors and just the right smidgen of Belgian yeastiness. Bring along for picnics, after a day of surfing and beach imbibing, or other sun-soaked outdoor activities. Don’t be fooled though, it still packs an IPA-level punch at 7% ABV.

Where to get it and for how long: Whole Foods, Bevmo, Bristol Farms, Lazy Acres, Royal Liquors in Leucadia, and Barons. As a core beer, Body Surfing is available year round, on tap and in cans at Rip Current tasting rooms.

Extra juicy tidbit? Look out for the upcoming Sticky Shenanigans hazy IPA (6.5% ABV) releasing on 4/20, as part of Rip Current’s rotating hazy series. The brew has a dank flavor profile featuring Nelson and Simcoe hops.

San Marcos: 1325 Grand Ave., 100,760.481.3141; North Park: 4101 30th St., 619.793.4777, ripcurrentbrewing.com