Matt Likes Beer – Episode 31 – You’re an IPA, Harry

In this episode of Matt Likes Beer, the Philadelphia Months series rolls on with a West Coast IPA that leans heavily into pop culture. Matt cracks open “You’re an IPA, Harry” from Second Sin Brewing—a beer packed with wizard-themed branding, even if the host himself isn’t exactly a student of the Harry Potter universe. What follows is a classic Matt-style journey: part beer review, part self-aware ramble, and part unexpected deep dive into theme park memories and media coverage days. From reminiscing about covering events at Universal Orlando Resort to accidentally gaming a Harry Potter trivia challenge, this episode proves that even a non-fan can find themselves surrounded by magic. On the beer side, Matt evaluates this American/West Coast IPA through a BJCP lens, breaking down appearance, aroma, flavor, and mouthfeel. Expect notes of lemon candy, pine resin, and a firm bitterness, along with thoughtful critique on balance, stylistic accuracy, and a slightly distracting mineral edge. It’s a beer that smells fantastic, drinks a bit lighter than expected, and sparks a conversation about what makes a classic IPA shine in a world full of hazy and experimental variants. Final score: 38/50 — a very good beer with a standout aroma and a few quirks worth discussing. Whether you’re here for the beer education, the storytelling, or just to hear someone admit they barely know anything about Harry Potter, this episode has a little something for everyone. Cheers!