If you’re a craft beer drinker, you’ve probably had Bell’s Two Hearted IPA—and if you haven’t, stop what you’re doing and fix that. In Episode 13 of Matt Likes Beer, I revisit this iconic American IPA, reflect on my own history with it, and put it through the judging wringer for an honest, guideline-based review.
A Familiar Face in the Wild
Two Hearted has gone from a hidden gem to a supermarket staple. Back in the day, it was a recommendation from a beer friend whose name and face I’ve long since forgotten. But the beer? That stuck. It’s the one that pulled me into the world of IPAs and hop-forward beers. Even with Bell’s acquisition and expansion under Sapporo’s umbrella, Two Hearted remains reliably solid—and, importantly, unchanged.
It’s a 7% ABV American IPA brewed with 100% Centennial hops, delivering citrus, grapefruit, and pine aromas that punch your nose before the glass hits your lips. It’s a go-to in restaurants with thin tap lists and a reliable backup when the local stuff isn’t doing it.
Style Showdown
I reviewed it under BJCP’s 21A American IPA guidelines. Despite occasional (and misguided) arguments that it’s too dark or too alcoholic to be a “true” IPA, it fits perfectly into the style. My judging breakdown?
Appearance: Orange-gold and glowing. 3/3.
Aroma: Orange zest, grapefruit, tropical fruit, light sweetness. 12/12.
Flavor: Great hop expression, solid bitterness, but lacking distinct malt character. 15/20.
Mouthfeel: Smooth and well-carbonated. 5/5.
Overall: Delicious, but a bit more malt balance would elevate it. 7/10.
Final Score: 42/50
Clone Attempts & Price Shock
I’ve even tried to clone this beer using Bell’s own ingredients from their old General Store (RIP). The results? Close, but no Centennial cigar. Brewing variables like yeast handling and water chemistry make a big difference. Also? The hops didn’t seem all that different from the ones I normally buy. Still, a fun experiment.
Then there’s the unforgettable sticker shock moment: $16 for a 16oz Two Hearted at a Columbus Blue Jackets game. Worth it? Maybe. Shocking? Absolutely.
One-Star Review Roulette
The internet delivered again, with some hilariously bad takes:
“Tastes like dog shit.” (A classic.)
“Most ungodly bitter beer I’ve ever tasted.”
“Deserving of a 75… 1 out of 5 stars.” (Math is hard.)
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