Review: Siren’s ‘Predator: Badlands’ First Hunt IPA

Siren Craft Brew has once again dived into the world of iconic sci-fi, teaming up with the Predator franchise for a special edition beer. This is the ‘First Hunt’ IPA, released to celebrate the upcoming film Predator: Badlands.

First impressions are, unsurprisingly, all about the packaging. The can is a little bit cool, featuring the unmistakable Predator mask. It’s a striking design, and as the reviewer noted, if you don’t appreciate the sci-fi art, this beer is probably not for you.

The Beer Itself

In the glass, the beer looks rather less futuristic than its container, pouring a hazy gold. This is an IPA that boasts “futuristic hops” on the can, and it certainly delivers a modern profile.

There’s a definite “wiff of raspberry” on the nose, which follows through on the palate. The reviewer noted it was very similar in design and flavour to Siren’s previous “Alien” collaboration, which also showcased a fruity, accessible taste.

This is not a complex, challenging brew; it’s clearly not a stout. Instead, it offers a crisp taste, that clean taste with a pleasant hint of fruit. It’s an easy-drinking, modern IPA.

The Verdict: A “Good Buy”?

Let’s be clear: this is a good beer, but perhaps not a great beer. As with many high-profile collaborations, you get the sense that the premium price offsets the licensing deal.

That said, the reviewer admits to being a “sucker” for this kind of merchandise and does not regret buying a six-pack. This is, after all, the perfect “aturday night action movie beer.

It’s a beer designed for an evening in. The reviewer suggests pairing it with popcorn, chocolate, or even chilli-flavoured crisps. It’s Recommended, especially if you’re a bit of a sci-fi geek.

No beer?

Before you settle in for your action movie, you’ll need supplies. While this beer is a specialist buy from Siren’s website or craft beer shops, you can get all your movie-night snacks from services like Deliveroo or Just Eat if you’re based in the city.

Of course, Predator: Badlands is “only in cinemas.” Why not make a night of it and see it on the big screen at the Vue Cinema at the Omni Centre or the Odeon Lothian Road?

Overall

This is a triumph of branding. It’s a collector’s item for sci-fi fans and a very drinkable, modern IPA for everyone else. While the price may be inflated by the movie tie-in, the beer itself is crisp, fruity, and enjoyable. For fans of the franchise, I reckon it’s a good buy.