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Friday, March 14, 2014

My Favorite REDS

Lately, I've found myself fascinated with the incredible smoothness and taste of Amber Ales.  They are quite delicious.  I am usually an IPA consumer, however now that I've tried these FIVE amazing beers...it's going to be a LONG while before I drink another IPA!    



























BEST in this order:

1. New Belgium Fat Tire Amber Ale

  • New Belgium Brewing, Fort Collins, Colorado
  • Named in honor of the cofounder's bike trip through Europe
  • well balanced with an aroma of "toasty, biscuit and caramel-like malt flavors, subtle notes of fresh fennel and green apple"
  • flavor is perfectly balanced of malt and hops, with a gentle sweetness
  • ABV 5.2%
  • IBU 22
  • BA score 81 good
  • pairs well with charcuterie meats and pot stickers

2. Griffin Claw El Rojo Red Ale

  • Griffin Claw Brewing Co., Birmingham, Michigan
  • Bronze medal winner
  • "Malty, Roasted flavor profile"
  • ABV 6.5%
  • IBU 25
  • BA score 85 Very good

  • North Peak Brewing Co., Traverse City, Michigan
  • "toasty, bready richness, sweet tangerine and lemon-pith hop flavors"
  • a good "anytime" drink
  • ABV 5.0%
  • IBU 48
  • BA score 75 okay

  • Finch's Beer Co., Chicago, Illinois
  • "deep red, malt forward, caramel malt, rye and spice notes, with an earthly and floral hop nuance"
  • ABV 8.0%
  • Imperial Amber Ale
  • BA score 83 good

5. Keweenaw Red Jacket Amber Ale

  • Keweenaw Brewing Co., Houghton, Michigan
  • A tribute to the Red Jacket Mine and the copper industry in Keweenaw Peninsula
  • "malty, caramel, toffee, biscuit-like aromas with a spicy/earthly hoppiness"
  • ABV 5.10%
  • BA score 80 good