Ft. Collins, CO (January 2010) - Ever met a New Belgium Beer Ranger? They are the friendly folks who ensure that New Belgium beers are available in local markets where the beer is served. Spanning 26 states from the Pacific to the Atlantic, Beer Rangers do their best to protect, to pour and to partake. Because of their selfless dedication to keep taps flowing and shelves stocked, New Belgium Brewing has created a beer in their honor: Ranger IPA. This year-round India Pale Ale is a unique addition to the New Belgium portfolio, and answers Rangers' (and their local beer drinkers') call for something new and hoppy in 2010.
   

  
While IPA is not technically a Belgian style, it was recently agreed upon that a hoppy offering from New Belgium was in order. Simcoe, Chinook and Cascade hops lead off the beer, with Cascade added again for dry-hopping. We're talking three pounds of hops per barrel resulting in a bright, citrus blast of hops riding a substantial, malty base. Pale and dark caramel malts bring out the hop aroma and flavor from start to finish. Ranger IPA offers 70 IBUs and is 6.5% ABV.

"The Belgian tradition of thinking outside the box freed us up to create a beer we all love that falls outside a conventional interpretation of Belgian 'style'," said Assistant Brewmaster Grady Hull. "It was fun to play with some new elements - this is by far the hoppiest beer we have ever produced."

The new offering, Ranger IPA, and its closest friends, Abbey, Mothership Wit and Trippel, are getting fresh, vivid graphics under the Explore Series. These four beers' departure from New Belgium's traditional watercolor packaging will make eyes pop and bottle caps fly. View imagery here:  http://www.newbelgium.com/beer 

Ranger IPA retails for approximately $7.99 and is offered in most states where New Belgium is sold.