Tombstone and New Belgium launching limited IPA

FORT COLLINS >> In the 1990s, a television advertisement campaign asked frozen-pizza lovers who happened to be in lifethreatening situations, “What do you want on your Tombstone?” The typical response was something along the lines of “cheese!” or “pepperoni and sausage!”

Perhaps in a modern version of the Tombstone Pizza commercials, the answer to that question might be … the flavors of India pale ale? Times certainly have changed.

Wisconsin-based Tombstone is collaborating with Fort Collins’ New Belgium Brewing Co. to launch a limited edition new addition to its popular Voodoo Ranger line of IPAS: the pizzaflavored I(pizza)a.

It’s hard to deny that pizza and beer are a classic combination, but drinkers will have to wait until I(pizza)a’s release on National Beer Day on April 7 to judge whether beer and pizza are “two great tastes that taste great together” in the same can. (Wait, maybe that line was from a different commercial. Oh right, Reese’s Peanut Butter Cups).

New Belgium’s website describes the Voodoo Ranger I(pizza)a as a “7% ABV slice of heaven (that) delivers the flavors of Tombstone’s crispy crust, tangy tomato sauce, and savory herbs and spices into an ice-cold beer. The finishing pepperoni kick of heat that will make you reach for another slice … or another pint.”

Beginning next week, Voodoo Ranger I(pizza)a will be available at New Belgium’s brewhouse in Fort Collins and for delivery in select markets. Two four-packs of 16-ounce cans of Voodoo Ranger I(pizza)a cost $49.99 with shipping included.