Milkshake IPAs tend to live or die by how well the sweetness is managed. When fruit, vanilla, and lactose all come together, the result can either be playful and balanced or overwhelming in a hurry. Barrel Theory has consistently shown a knack for walking that line, and Do You Think This Is A Game? leans fully into fun while still keeping things surprisingly drinkable.
Do You Think This Is A Game?
Barrel Theory Beer Company Do You Think This Is A Game? pours a hazy deep golden, filling the glass with a frothy white head and just a slight reddish tint from the strawberry.
The nose is immediately expressive, with fresh strawberry jam invading the senses alongside creamy vanilla. A Fruity Pebbles like cereal note jumps out as well, backed by a noticeable sugary sweetness that sets expectations right away.
On the palate, brilliant strawberry bursts forward, filling the mouth like a pinch of strawberry Big League Chew. Creamy vanilla and sugary lactose follow, creating a strawberry creamsicle character before shifting into flavors reminiscent of strawberry PEZ and bubblegum in the aftertaste. It finishes sweet but manages to dry out just enough, keeping it from feeling heavy and making it easy to enjoy more than one.
Game On
Do You Think This Is A Game? is unapologetically playful and nostalgic, delivering exactly what its name suggests. It is a dessert leaning IPA that embraces sweetness and fruit while remaining approachable, making it a fun and satisfying pour for fans of milkshake IPAs and fruit forward beers alike.