Foothills Torch Pilsner

Foothills Torch Pilsner, Winston-Salem, North Carolina.

Clouded, golden-hued, slim white head.

Classic lager aroma, cereal grains, straw, noble hops, very clean, lightly malty. Classic and clean are the watch words.

Tasting it: hops up top, starts bright, then fades back. Goes down smooth, clean, and guess what? Classic. Some fruit filters up, met with bitterness from Saaz hops and all else. Big top hop bitterness, lays long and large on the tongue. Clean, lean, light, a tiny touch fruity, and plenty hoppy. Extra consumable. Sleek and smooth and easy to down.

What does Mr. Label say: "A balanced beer made with Czech Saaz hops. Torch presents a well-structured, highly drinkable Pilsner experience." 5.5% ABV, 35 IBU.

That sounds about right. Though, I do wish there was more to tell the story. Why "Torch"? Why the Viking on the label? Why ask why? Just because. I have to know.