Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing Abv Review (Updated | May 3rd)

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Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing is a prominent example of the New England IPA style, characterized by its unfiltered appearance and fruit-forward profile. When evaluating hazy IPAs, key factors include alcohol by volume, hop bitterness, and mouthfeel. This beer maintains a 6.7% ABV, balancing potency with drinkability. It serves as a resource for consumers seeking a consistent, widely available craft beer that prioritizes tropical aromatics over intense bitterness, making it suitable for both enthusiasts and newcomers to the style.

Key Takeaways

  • The Raw Tank-Fresh Original is ideal for IPA beginners seeking a 6.7% ABV with low bitterness.
  • Choose the Diverse Hazy Sampler if you want to explore different flavor profiles beyond the standard hazy style.
  • Prioritize the Raw Tank-Fresh Original for a juicy, unfiltered tropical profile that delivers a consistent 6.7% ABV kick.
  • Check the packaging date to ensure maximum freshness and preserve the delicate tropical fruit notes of these IPAs.
  • Select the sampler pack when hosting gatherings to provide variety for guests with different craft beer preferences.
Editor’s Choice

Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA, 6-Pack Cans

Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA, 6-Pack Cans
Raw Tank-Fresh Original

Why We Choose:

  • The 6.7% ABV provides a solid kick without being overwhelming.
  • Unfiltered process preserves a rich, juicy tropical fruit flavor profile.
  • Very low bitterness makes it easy to drink for IPA beginners.

Product Comparison: Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing Abv

Raw Tank-Fresh Original

Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA, 6-Pack Cans

Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing IPA, 6-Pack Cans

SIERRA NEVADA

If you are looking for a reliable fridge staple, this 6.7% ABV unfiltered IPA is a total classic. When you pour it, you’ll notice that signature cloudy, golden look because it goes straight from the tanks into the can without any filtering.

I love how it smells like a basket of citrus and tropical fruit the second you crack it open. On the palate, it’s remarkably smooth and juicy with a silky malt backbone that keeps the modest bitterness from feeling harsh.

It is the perfect pick for someone who wants that craft brewery taste without having to actually travel to a taproom. It feels adventurous but stays approachable enough for a casual weeknight.

However, because it is so fruit-forward and unfiltered, the sediment can sometimes settle at the bottom of the can, so you really need to give it a gentle swirl to get the full experience. It’s a great introduction to the style if you’re tired of overly bitter West Coast IPAs.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • The 6.7% ABV provides a solid kick without being overwhelming.
  • Unfiltered process preserves a rich, juicy tropical fruit flavor profile.
  • Very low bitterness makes it easy to drink for IPA beginners.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Sediment can settle heavily if the cans sit for too long.
  • The flavor profile might feel too sweet for traditional hop heads.

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Diverse Hazy Sampler

Sierra Nevada Hazy IPA Variety Pack, 12-Pack Cans

Sierra Nevada Hazy IPA Variety Pack, 12-Pack Cans

SIERRA NEVADA

For those times when you can’t decide on just one flavor, this 12-pack variety box is a lifesaver. It centers around that core 6.7% ABV hazy profile but lets you branch out into different hop experiments and fruit infusions.

I usually grab this for backyard hangouts because there is always something for everyone, whether they like a citrus-heavy brew or something a bit more earthy. You get the same unprocessed, raw quality that Sierra Nevada is known for, but with enough diversity to keep your taste buds from getting bored.

It is a fantastic value for stocking up before a party or a long weekend. The only real catch with these variety packs is that you might find yourself loving one specific seasonal inclusion and then realizing you only have two or three of them in the box.

It’s a bit of a gamble if you have a clear favorite, but the overall quality across the board makes it worth the purchase.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Offers a great way to sample different hazy IPA variations.
  • Consistent 6.7% ABV across the different styles in the pack.
  • The 12-can format is much better value for social gatherings.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • You might end up with styles you enjoy less than others.
  • Variety packs sometimes contain older stock compared to single-style six-packs.

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High-Gravity Limited Release

Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Things Rotator, 6-Pack Cans

Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Things Rotator, 6-Pack Cans

SIERRA NEVADA

If you are a fan of the original Hazy Little Thing but want something with a bit more punch, this rotating Citra Little Thing is exactly what you should be looking for. It hits a solid 7.5% ABV, which makes it surprisingly strong for how smooth it feels on the palate.

When I poured this, the first thing I noticed was that classic silky texture that Sierra Nevada nails every time. It is packed with a massive citrusy aroma that smells like fresh-peeled oranges and grapefruit, but it keeps the bitterness low at only 25 IBU.

This is the perfect pick for someone who loves a juicy, tropical vibe but wants a higher alcohol content to sip on during a weekend hangout. The only real catch here is that it is a limited release rotator, meaning if you fall in love with this specific Citra blend, it might be replaced by the next version in the series before you can restock your fridge.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • The 7.5% ABV provides a nice extra kick.
  • Extremely low bitterness makes it very easy to drink.
  • The silky mouthfeel feels premium for a canned beer.
  • Intense citrus notes provide a refreshing tropical aroma.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • The rotating availability means it is often hard to find.
  • Higher alcohol content can sneak up on you quickly.

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Balanced Juicy Profile

Sierra Nevada Juicy Little Thing IPA, 6-Pack Cans

Sierra Nevada Juicy Little Thing IPA, 6-Pack Cans

SIERRA NEVADA

The Juicy Little Thing is basically the crowd-pleaser of the Sierra Nevada lineup, sitting at a very manageable 6.5% ABV. If you are looking for a beer that focuses entirely on fruit-forward flavors without that harsh piney bite of a traditional IPA, this is the one to grab.

It is designed to be juicy and hazy, leaning heavily into those stone fruit and tropical notes that make your mouth water. I think this is the ideal choice for a casual backyard BBQ or a beach day because it is flavorful enough to savor but light enough that it doesn’t feel like a meal in a can.

It is a great ‘entry-level’ hazy for people who usually avoid craft beers. However, for the hardcore hop-heads out there, the milder profile might feel a bit too safe, as it lacks the complex depth and resinous finish found in some of their more aggressive brews.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Very approachable 6.5% ABV for casual drinking sessions.
  • Bursting with bright fruit flavors and minimal bitterness.
  • The 12oz cans are perfect for travel and coolers.
  • Consistent quality you can expect from a major craft brewery.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • Lacks the complex hop bite some IPA fans crave.
  • The hazy appearance can sometimes look a bit sediment-heavy.

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Tall-Can Solo Serve

Sierra Nevada Hazy IPA, 19.2 oz Single Can

Sierra Nevada Hazy IPA, 19.2 oz Single Can

SIERRA NEVADA

If you are looking for that classic, unfiltered experience, this 19.2oz stovepipe can is exactly what you want to grab from the cooler. It hits that sweet spot with a 6.7% ABV that feels substantial without being too heavy.

What I love about this specific Hazy IPA is how it balances that silky mouthfeel with a massive punch of citrus and tropical notes. It is the perfect choice for someone who wants a craft beer that feels premium but is easy to find at a gas station or stadium.

You should buy this if you’re heading to a concert or a BBQ and want a single, large serving that stays cold and flavorful. The only real downside is that the 19.2oz size can get a little warm toward the bottom if you aren’t a fast drinker, and the alcohol content is high enough that a couple of these will definitely sneak up on you quickly.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • The large stovepipe can is perfect for outdoor events.
  • Reliable 6.7% ABV provides a solid kick.
  • Unfiltered texture offers a very smooth drinking experience.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • The tall can fits poorly in standard small koozies.
  • High alcohol content makes it less ideal for long sessions.

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Low-Calorie Alcohol-Free

Sierra Nevada Trail Pass Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA, 5-Pack

Sierra Nevada Trail Pass Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA, 5-Pack

ChromaCast

I was honestly skeptical about a non-alcoholic hazy, but the Trail Pass Hazy actually holds its own. Instead of just stripping the alcohol out, they brewed this to keep that authentic craft character using Mosaic and El Dorado hops.

It is surprisingly juicy and tropical, making it a great pick for when you want the taste of a craft beer without the buzz. It is perfect for hikers or anyone who needs to stay sharp but still wants to crack a cold one at the end of the day.

Plus, at only 71 calories, it’s a total win for your waistline. However, while the 40 IBUs provide a nice bite, it does lack that specific ‘weight’ or thickness on the tongue that you usually get from a full-leaded hazy IPA.

It feels a bit thinner than the original, but for a non-alcoholic option, it is one of the best I have tried.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • Only 71 calories makes it a very healthy alternative.
  • Authentic hop flavor from Mosaic and El Dorado varieties.
  • Traditional brewing methods preserve the real craft beer taste.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • The mouthfeel is noticeably thinner than a standard IPA.
  • Carb count is slightly high for a non-alcoholic beverage.

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Full-Flavor Zero Proof

Sierra Nevada Trail Pass Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA, 6-Pack

Sierra Nevada Trail Pass Non-Alcoholic Hazy IPA, 6-Pack

ChromaCast

If you are looking to cut back on the booze but still crave that specific juicy hop profile, this is a surprisingly solid pick. Unlike many non-alcoholic beers that taste like thin, metallic soda, this one uses Mosaic and El Dorado hops to deliver a genuine tropical punch.

It pours with that classic cloudy, hazy appearance you expect from a craft IPA, and because it is brewed traditionally rather than having the alcohol stripped out later, it maintains a decent body. It is a great choice for a post-hike refresher or a weeknight drink when you want to stay sharp, especially since it clocks in at just 71 calories.

You get a nice 40 IBU bitterness that balances the citrus notes well. However, because it lacks the ethanol of a standard brew, the mouthfeel is noticeably thinner than a regular Hazy Little Thing.

It is definitely a session-able alternative, but don’t expect it to have the same heavy, velvety weight on your tongue as the full-strength version.

✓ Reasons to Buy

  • The Mosaic and El Dorado hops provide authentic tropical flavors.
  • At only 71 calories, it is a very light choice.
  • It maintains a beautiful, cloudy appearance in the glass.
  • The 40 IBU rating provides a satisfying, crisp bitterness.

✗ Reasons Not to Buy

  • The mouthfeel is thinner than a traditional alcoholic IPA.
  • It lacks the lingering complexity of the original Hazy Little Thing.

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Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon.com at the time of purchase will apply to the purchase of this product.

Buying Guide

Buying Guide: Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing Abv

Alcohol Content and ABV Range

  • Select a standard strength around 6.7% ABV for a classic craft experience like the Sierra Nevada Hazy
  • Opt for higher gravity options reaching 7.5% ABV if you prefer a more warming, robust profile found in the SIERRA NEVADA Hazy rotator series
  • Choose non-alcoholic versions with less than 0.5% ABV for social occasions where you want flavor without the buzz
  • Match the ABV to your session length to ensure a responsible and enjoyable pace

Flavor Profile and Bitterness

  • Look for ‘unfiltered’ labels to ensure a silky mouthfeel and a swirling cloud appearance
  • Prioritize Mosaic and El Dorado hops for tropical notes, or Citra hops for a sharp citrus edge as seen in the SIERRA NEVADA Hazy rotator
  • Check the IBU rating to balance hop intensity, with 25 IBU offering a modest, approachable bitterness
  • Seek out ‘juicy’ descriptors if you prefer fruit-forward sweetness over traditional piney hop resins

Packaging and Serving Size

  • Select 19.2 oz single cans for individual consumption or outdoor events where glass is prohibited
  • Choose a 12-pack variety set like the Sierra Nevada, Hazy IPA Variety to sample different hop profiles in one purchase
  • Opt for standard 6-pack 12 oz cans for easy refrigerator storage and portion control
  • Check for aluminum can packaging to better protect the beer from light degradation and ‘skunking’

Dietary and Lifestyle Considerations

  • Monitor calorie counts if you are health-conscious, as non-alcoholic options like the Sierra Nevada Trail offer a lower 71-calorie alternative
  • Verify carb counts per serving, which can range from 14.6g in light versions to significantly higher in standard IPAs
  • Consider ‘session-able’ ratings for daytime events where lower intensity is preferred
  • Review the brewing process to ensure the beer is unfiltered and unprocessed for the most authentic craft character

FAQs

What is the typical alcohol content for the Hazy Little Thing series?

The standard Sierra Nevada Hazy Little Thing typically sits at 6.7% ABV, providing a solid kick without being overly heavy. However, if you opt for the Citra Little Thing found in the Rotator packs, the ABV jumps to 7.5%, which changes the profile to a more potent, citrus-forward experience.

How does the Sierra Nevada Trail Pass compare to the standard alcoholic versions?

The Sierra Nevada Trail Pass is a non-alcoholic alternative that mimics the tropical Mosaic and El Dorado hop profile of the original quite well. While it lacks the body provided by alcohol, at only 71 calories, it is an excellent choice for those who want the ‘juicy’ flavor profile without the buzz or the heavy carb count.

Is there a difference between the ‘Juicy’ and ‘Hazy’ labels in this lineup?

While often used interchangeably, the Sierra Nevada, IPA Hazy Juicy Little Thing specifically emphasizes a lower bitterness and a more fruit-forward, ‘pulp-like’ mouthfeel compared to their standard IPAs. It is designed for drinkers who prefer a silky texture over the sharp, piney bite found in traditional West Coast styles.

What should I look for when checking the freshness of a Hazy IPA?

Hazy IPAs are highly sensitive to oxygen and heat, which can turn the bright hop flavors dull or ‘cardboard-like’ over time. Always check the ‘packaged on’ date on the bottom of the can; for the best experience with these unfiltered beers, try to consume them within 90 days of canning.

Why are these beers described as ‘unfiltered’ and ‘unprocessed’?

Leaving the beer unfiltered preserves the protein and yeast suspended in the liquid, which creates the signature cloudy appearance and smooth mouthfeel. This process also retains more volatile hop oils, which is why beers like the Sierra Nevada Hazy series have such an intense tropical aroma compared to clear IPAs.

Which packaging size offers the best value for a gathering?

If you are hosting, the Sierra Nevada, Hazy IPA Variety 12Pk is the most practical choice as it often includes different rotations of the ‘Little Thing’ family. For personal consumption or a quick grab-and-go, the 19.2oz single cans are a convenient way to enjoy a larger serving without committing to a full six-pack.

Does the ‘Hazy’ style mean the beer will be sweet?

Not necessarily sweet, but it will have a perceived sweetness due to the low bitterness (IBU) and high fruit esters. Look for IBU ratings around 25-40 if you want a smooth, juice-like finish, whereas anything above 60 will start to introduce that classic bitter hop ‘snap’.

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