Grapefruit-flavored beers you need to try

Major leaguers have reported to spring training’s Grapefruit League. Imbibers should follow.

Samuel Adams Rebel Grapefruit IPA leads off with hops that grab you with citrus and tropical fruit. Grapefruit juice and peel are in the mix. The bright, tart result is a snappy leadoff hitter. Figure $8 to $10 for a six-pack, and $2 to $2.49 for a 16-ounce can.

There’s also a hint of grapefruit, as well as woodsiness, in the Samuel Adams Rebel Cascade IPA, a limited release that balances sweet and dry leading to a long finish. The beer is available in 12-ounce cans in the brewer’s variety pack, which takes in Rebel IPA, Rebel Rouser IPA, and Rebel Rouser Double IPA, as well as Rebel Grapefruit IPA. The pack goes for $15 to $18.

Stay hoppy with Samuel Adams Noble Pils, a Bohemian-style pilsner that will be around through March, in the brewer’s “cabin pack,” which adds classic Boston Lager, spirited Cold Snap, the Kolsch-style Escape Route, Session Ale and the welcome return of Scotch Ale. The 12-pack is $15 to $18.

Crisp Nobel Pils is a treat. The full-bodied Scotch Ale, made with three malts including peat-smoked malted barley, is a distinctive, rewarding pour. And the new, notable Session Ale, modeled after an Extra Special Bitter, delivers suggestions of citrus, plus a floral accent.

They’re all good on their own, or with food. The grapefruit duo is a match for spicy dishes; Scotch Ale with red meat; Noble Pils and Escape Route, with preseason hot dogs.