Unlike the ubiquitous pale ales that highlight the bitter flavors of hops, Bell’s Brewery of Kalamazoo, Michigan is setting a new standard for the light drinker. Two Hearted Ale takes advantage of the hop content of the typical pale, but instead of focusing on the bitterness, Two Hearted highlights the fruity flavors of its hops.

With a light malt profile, Two Hearted lets its floral and fruity hops shine through its strong 7 percent alcohol content. The volatile aromatics from the hops come out full blast in the head of the beer, and just the smell is more reminiscent of candy than beer.

Although this brew doesn’t come on draught in Raleigh, pouring it into a glass is the next best alternative. If you’re drinking this straight out of the bottle, you’ve already lost. If you’re going to spend $11 on a six-pack, you’re going to want to enjoy every last drop Two Hearts has to offer, and the aromatic-olfactory component of taste of this beer is just as important as the sensation on the taste buds.

The citrus flavors and the evergreen floral aromas derive from the Centennial hop varietal that the brewery adds during the oil extraction of the boil and during fermentation. However, unlike many beers made in a similar style, like IPAs, Two Hearted Ale has no bitterness that lingers on the back of the tongue. Bell’s Brewery take special care of the fermentation of this brew, and their signature strain of yeast imparts additional fruit aromas.

Make sure to drink this beer before going darker beyond brown ale, since it will taste like a Sprite after drinking a Guinness. However, the light body of this beer does not translate in anything light on its alcohol. With extra base malt added to the mash, brewers were able to achieve an above average alcohol content.

From a political perspective, North Carolina is lucky to have new legislation that allows stronger beers. Only 18 of the 50 states in the union can legally enjoy the candy-like qualities of Two Hearted.

This pale ale can hit all levels of beer tastes, so if it’s light body, sweet flavor or high ABV you’re looking for, Two Hearted Ale may be something to consider.