Day 5: Heretic Brewing Evil Cousin Imperial IPA
Aroma:
Wonderful floral and apple nose. I really enjoyed the smell of this beer.
Appearance:
Poured a clear amber with a thin white colored and minimal lace.
Flavor:
Very hop forward with a little citrus note following along. There was minimal pine flavor and it finished very crisply with only the slightest bit of lingering bitter.
Overall:
I was mesmerized by the wonderful aroma of this Imperial IPA. It flowed well into the flavor which was well balanced and crisp. I really enjoyed this beer.
Day 6: Anderson Valley Brewing Barney Flats Oatmeal Stout
Aroma:
Oats and chocolate dominate the smell but there is a hint of coffee there too.
Appearance:
Poured a deep black with a thick tan colored head and thin lacing.
Taste:
The taste is very mild and surprisingly thin. The oats and chocolate are there and they are a little toasty. The flavor is very smooth and finishes quickly.
Overall:
I thought the flavor good but I was expecting it to be heavier and thicker with more character. I would say was an average stout.
Day 7: Sierra Nevada Celebration
Aroma:
Lots of spice and hops are abundant and sweet smelling.
Appearance:
Clear amber colored body with a thick and heavy white head. There is a little bit of noticeable carbonation.
Taste:
Follows the aroma with spice, hops and a little pine. The flavor is clean and dry, finishing crisply.
Overall:
I am not usually one for winter seasonal ales but I thought Celebration was balanced. It was not overly spiced and the balanced hops worked well to round off the flavor.
Day 8: New Belgium Brewing Snow Day Winter Ale
Aroma:
Mild hop, chocolate, and caramel with a hint of pine.
Appearance:
Dark espresso with a heavy cream colored head that quickly falls leaving heavy lacing on the glass.
Taste:
Sweet nutty flavor with chocolate and hints of coffee. The finish is mild with a hint of pine.
Overall:
I found this beer to be very smooth. I enjoyed the espresso and chocolate flavors; although they didn't 'blow my mind'. This was a decent beer.
