For craft beer lovers, Lagunitas Brewing Company is a household name. Known for its irreverent attitude and hop-forward IPAs, this Petaluma, California brewery has been a staple since the 90s. They practically defined the West Coast IPA style for a generation. But with a lineup that’s grown over the years, which Lagunitas IPA truly stands out?
We decided to revisit the classics and the newcomers to rank our top five. From the legendary flagship to sessionable modern brews, here’s our official ranking of the best Lagunitas IPAs.
The Official Ranking: Top 5 Lagunitas IPAs
1. Lagunitas IPA
You have to start with the original. This is the beer that put Lagunitas on the map, and for good reason. It’s a quintessential, old-school West Coast IPA. It pours a beautiful, clear copper and hits you with a caramel malt backbone that perfectly balances the aggressive pine and citrus hop character from the Cascade and Centennial hops. It’s not a juicy, hazy brew; it’s a refreshingly bitter, unapologetically bold IPA that remains a benchmark for the style.
2. A Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ Ale
Is it an IPA? Is it a Wheat Ale? It’s the best of both worlds. A Little Sumpin’ Sumpin’ is dangerously smooth and drinkable. The wheat in the malt bill gives it a silky, smooth body that tones down the bitterness you’d expect from an IPA. The flavor is packed with tropical and citrus notes—think pineapple, grapefruit, and a hint of pine. It’s a unique, refreshing beer that appeals to both seasoned IPA drinkers and those just dipping their toes into hoppy waters.
3. Maximus Colossal IPA
When you want to turn things up a notch, Maximus is the answer. As a Double IPA, it’s bigger in every way: more malt, more hops, and more alcohol (a hefty 9% ABV). It has a rich, malty sweetness that stands up to the intense wave of hop flavor. Expect deep notes of dank pine, spicy resin, and a touch of dark fruit. It’s a full-bodied, warming beer that’s perfect for sipping and savoring.
4. Hazy Wonder
Lagunitas was a bit late to the hazy IPA party, but they made a worthy entrance with Hazy Wonder. This beer delivers the soft, pillowy mouthfeel and low bitterness that fans of the style crave. It’s bursting with juicy tropical fruit flavors like mango, passionfruit, and a hint of citrus. It’s not a “hop bomb” like their other offerings, but rather a smooth, aromatic, and incredibly easy-drinking hazy IPA.
5. DayTime IPA
Proof that you don’t need a high ABV to pack in flavor. DayTime is a light, crisp, and brilliantly sessionable IPA. At just 4% ABV and under 100 calories, it’s the perfect beer for a sunny afternoon or when you want a flavorful brew without the buzz. It’s light on the body but still has a pleasant hop character with notes of lemon zest, fresh-cut grass, and a clean, dry finish.
What’s Your Go-To?
From the iconic original to modern hazy interpretations, the Lagunitas IPA lineup offers something for every type of hop head. While our list celebrates the diversity and quality of their portfolio, the best beer is always the one you enjoy most.
Did we miss your favorite? Let us know in the comments below what your go-to Lagunitas IPA is!