Hazy beers have exploded in popularity over the last decade, but what actually makes a beer “hazy”? And why do drinkers associate haze with juiciness, softness, and modern IPA flavor? In Part 1 of The Science of Haze, Mother Earth Brew Co.’s Director of Brewing Operations, Chris Baker, joins us to explore how haze-forward beers evolved, what defines them, and how consumers interpret what they see in the glass. We break down the stylistic differences between hazy IPAs, NEIPAs, juicy pale ales, and “unfiltered” beers, and discuss the sensory and psychological cues that drive the modern haze craze. Whether you’re a brewer, beer enthusiast, or someone who loves learning how trends shape the craft beer industry, this episode is your guide to understanding haze from a style and flavor perspective. In This Episode You’ll Learn: -What separates hazy IPAs, NEIPAs, and juicy pale ales -Why haze became a symbol of “juicy” hop flavor -How appearance affects aroma and mouthfeel expectations -Why some haze is intentional — and some isn’t -How breweries balance haze, drinkability, and stability 🎧 Stay tuned for Part 2, where we dive into the brewing chemistry behind haze: proteins, polyphenols, yeast behavior, biotransformation, and how modern brewers engineer haze on purpose. Watch / Listen to The Craft Equation on ▶️ YouTube, 🎧 Spotify, 🍏 Apple, or wherever you get your podcasts Follow Mother Earth Brew Co. 🌐 Website: https://www.motherearthbrewco.com 📸 Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/motherearthbrewco 📘 Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/MotherEarthBrewCo 🐦 X (Twitter): https://twitter.com/MotherEarthBrCo Learn more about our Hazy IPA at motherearthbrewco.com/project-x. Search for our beer on our beer finder at motherearthbrewco.com/locator. About The Craft Equation The Craft Equation explores the intersection of brewing science, business, and culture through conversations with industry professionals, brewers, creators, and thought leaders shaping the world of craft beer.
