When you think of Alaska, what are the flavors that come to mind? Probably not pineapple and jalapeño, but that’s exactly what Alaskan Brewing Company chose for its latest Pilot Series release, Pineapple Jalapeño Gose. The geography may not make sense, but the flavor combination of spicy, sweet, and sour certainly does. 

Alaskan chose a 22-ounce bomber in which to bottle this creation, and I’d certainly recommend splitting it—more due to the volume of flavor than the 5.8% ABV. It looks like a hazy IPA off the pour, with no real hint to the style until you lean over the glass, revealing a sweet and tart aroma with a touch of jalapeño spice.

That all changes on the first sip. The jalapeño roars to the forefront with plenty of heat, but also some of the pepper’s more delicate fruity flavors. The sweet pineapple and sour gose base serve as a much-needed respite from the pepper, as the heat fades and each sip leaves behind a sweet, fruity finish. There’s a candied quality to the sweetness in the beer, reminding me of how pineapple sweetens as it warms. Pineapple Jalapeño Gose tastes like a charred kabob of pineapple and jalapeño, a perfect complement to a grilled entree on a summer night.

Even still, this isn’t a beer ro finish in one sitting. It’s simply too much spice and pepper flavor for more than a few sips, at least for me. I’m left wondering how much more I’d like the beer without the pepper addition. At the very least, I know I wouldn’t have trouble with a whole bomber to myself.

With Alaskan’s Pineapple Jalapeño Gose, things are pretty simple. If you like your beer with a spicy kick it is an absolute must try. If not, maybe reach for a different one of the brewery’s excellent offerings.