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

3.  North Peak Siren Amber Ale

• 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

4. Finch's Beer Co. Fascist Pig Ale

• 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