Beer #41 - Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

Style: 90 Minute IPA
Purchased at: Blue Nile Ethiopian Cuisine
What makes this beer different: The Crispness
Will I be drinking this again: Definitely
Grade: A

Comments:
Poured from a 12 oz bottle into a chilled pilsner.

Appearance: Not a huge head, and what WAS there disappeared quickly. The body has a clear amber like hue and possesses excellent carbonation activity.

Smell: Brew is definitely finished off with Amarillo Hops (my favorite) as it models a citrusy hop character. Smells are warm and inviting.

Taste: This is where the 90 Minute IPA ROCKS! Grapefruit like taste definitely would fits the description. At 9% ABV you will be surprised. It doesn't taste heavy, and you hardly can tell the alcohol is there! I am going to drink this beer all of the time this coming summer :)

Mouthfeel: This beer is light and fluffy. A definite surprise. The carbonation is quite nice on the palate as well. Drinkability is alarmingly wonderful, just be careful!

Overall: A fantastic beer; make sure you drink it good and chilled. As with most American IPA's the brew starts to exhibit bitter smells and tastes as it warms up.

Recommendations:
Drink this paired with a BBQ Burger and a basket of onion rings, I have a feeling you are going to love it!

Comments

Beer #23 - McSorley's Irish Pale Ale

Style: Irish Ale Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: Spicy, Earthy flavor! Will I be drinking this again: Yes. Grade: B+ Recommendations: Just like its big brother, the black lager, this pale ale is a winner! Smooth & crisp tones accent this hoppy ale. McSorley's Pale Ale is a mix between an English Ale and an Irish Red Ale. Word to the wise: You will find this brew quite drinkable, so don't lose track of how many you put back! Recommendations: Try pairing with a nice cut of prime rib and garlic mashed potatoes :) YUM

Beer #14 - Bear Republic Racer 5 India Pale Ale

Style: American IPA Purchased at: Vintage Cellar What makes this beer different: Strong citrusy hops. Will I be drinking this again: Possibly, but will not go out of my way to get it. Grade: B- Comments: A very citrusy hop can be detected in this beer along with a decent amount of carbonation. That being said, there is a very weak head on this beer which confuses me a little. Overtones of oranges, grapefruit, and pine can be detected in this beer. If you are used to American IPA's, then the slightly bitter finish will not surprise you. To be honest I was pretty disappointed in this beer, and it is probably one of my least favorite IPA's. It has a strange smell, and not a whole lot of bite. I would also recommend shaking the beer before you open it, as it re-ferments in the bottle. Recommendations: 1) Seriously consider another IPA, 2) If you do get this one, drink with a hot, salty pretzel.

Beer #42 - Sapporo Premium Beer

Style: Japanese Rice Lager Purchased at: Sakura Japanese Steakhouse & World Market What makes this beer different: Japanese Will I be drinking this again: Yup Grade: C+ Comments: This brew is a carbonated, frothy, medium bodied lager with a dry finish and possesses hints of bitter hops Beer pours egg yolk yellow with a creamy white head; sweet malts and soft grains lie in the undertones of this subtle smelling lager. Unfortunately nothing really sets this beer apart from the crowd, other than it being a Japanese Lager. Don't get me wrong, it is very good and quite drinkable! It just isn't a game changer for me, which is why my score isn't higher. Go out and give this one a try, it is definitely worth it ... ESPECIALLY for my light beer lovers out there! Recommendations: Pair with Shrimp Tempura and Edamame Soy Beans is perfect!

The Beer Enthusiasts of Blacksburg

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