REVIEW: Ful Beverage Feel Better Blonde / NA IPA
This Midwest-based company is looking to disrupt both the beer and sports drink categories with a diverse lineup of beverages.
Michigan has played a key role in the growth of the craft beer industry, with the western portion of the state developing craft stalwarts like Founders (Grand Rapids), Bell’s (Kalamazoo) and New Holland (Holland), joining those on the eastern side such as Atwater (Detroit) and Jolly Pumpkin (Dexter) to develop a rich brewing history in the mitten state. One could argue that it has a pretty rich history in non-alcoholic beverages as well, as the headquarters of regional soda maker Faygo, and prior to its acquisition by Keurig/Dr. Pepper, the iconic Vernor’s, which enjoys a cult status among many Michigan-born Gen Xers who grew up with the brand (IYKYK).
Launched in 2022, Detroit’s Ful Beverage (pronounced FUEL) is trying to chart its own path, both inside and outside the state. In the N/A beer category, they’ve introduced Feel Better Blonde, a citrusy blonde ale N/A, as well as their own N/A IPA. They also are positioning themselves in the booming pre and post-workout beverage game, with three pre-workout drinks, Savage Triple Berry, Savage Cherry, and Lit Orange, as well as a post-workout drink called Recovery Pineapple Coconut. All are available for purchase online from the company store. The new company is led by former President and Owner of Atwater Brewery, Mark Rieth, who himself oversaw Atwater’s expansion into new products like seltzers.
The company slogan is For Those With A Thirst For Alchemy. And we certainly do.
Feel Better Blonde Non-Alcoholic Beer
In our tasting, we found the Feel Better Blonde to be very crisp and smooth, with a light blonde color. There were just enough hops in the mouthfeel, but without any residual bitterness. Light citrusy notes were evident in the finish. We’d consider this beer to be eminently crushable after a good long run, a workout, or as an apres ski.
NA IPA
As for the IPA, there were good hops in the nose with a hazy golden color. Made with Citra and Mosaic hops, the Citra is evident right away in the aroma, while the Mosaic comes through in the finish with an herbal, earthy vibe. Definitely a nice hoppy refresher that will satisfy your craving for a beer at the end of a long day.