Weekly Beer Reviews

This week we tasted with some guest tasters. My boss, Justin Miller, popped in to taste them with me. Cody, one of our morning stockers who has recently become part of the night crew also joined for his first tasting. Here is what we have for you:

New Albanian Black and Bluegrass

This Saison Ale that is made with blue agave and black pepper is certainly interesting. The nose has hints of floral perfumes and coriander. Though many agreed that it smells like bubble bath. I don't get agave nectar or black pepper on the flavor, though that bubble bath seemed to shine through with subtle soapy flavors. Floral hops floated to the front before finishing quickly. There wasn't much to this beer, and I found it could have been more interesting with the ingredients it had in it.

Mike, Justin, and Cody's Rating - 5.5/10


Green Flash Retro Extra Pale Ale

This new offering from Green Flash is only available on tap. The nose is light, with only subtle hints of floral hops. The first taste is smooth, with a light taste of bitterness. Floral hops are present, but hard to pick out. The finish has the bitterness fading, and a creamy taste being shown off. This is certainly a crisp, refreshing pale ale that is perfect for the last weeks of Summer.

Mike, Justin, and Cody's Rating - 7.5/10


Three Floyds Robert the Bruce Scottish Ale

Cody bowed out of the tasting for this one. That is partially due to the fact that he only likes hoppy beers. This is one of Three Floyds most popular beers, though it hasn't graced our wall in about 2 years. The nose has hints of oatmeal, bran, and light chocolate. The taste is exceptionally malty, with tasty floral hops shining through as wlel. It finishes smoothly, with only a touch of bitterness. A strong taste of milk chocolate filled the finish. For those of you who love Doppelbocks and other similar styles, this beer is for you.

Mike and Justin's Rating - 8/10


Leinenkugel's Big Eddy Imperial IPA

I know what you all are thinking. An Imperial IPA? From Leinenkugels? How good could it be? The answer...Fantastic. This is easily one of the best Imperial IPA's to grace our wall this year. One to compete with a fresh Dogfish Head 90 and Three Floyds Arctic Panzer Wolf. The nose has tons of fruit, with aroma's of mango, pineapple, grapefruit, and orange peel creating a unique bouquet. The taste is bitter, with floral hops and tons of grapefruit and mango showing off. The finish is quick, smooth, and remarkably refreshing. You won't find much better on our wall.

Mike, Justin, and Cody's Rating -  9.75/10