It's about time I got around to some Badger Hill beers, isn't it? They've been out for some months now, and I've only sampled them at festivals, beginning with All Pints North, where their booth was next to Harriet's. This one is new, a "smooth American Stout." 6.3% ABV. What else do we know? Badger Hill Brewing Company, Proudly Brewed in Minnesota, Brewed and Bottled by Badger Hill Brewing LLC in Minnetonka, MN (Sharing space with Lucid.)"What's in this Brew: Pale, Chocolate, and Crystal Malt, Roasted Barley, American Hops, Plato: 15, IBU: 45. Paid $9.99 for a 6-pack at Chicago Lake Liquors.
Solid black, with a tight tanned head of foam.
Mild aroma of roasted coffee and cocoa. Lightly bitter, with a dot of sweetness in the middle. Very nice.
Taste: Bittersweet describes the first hit on the tongue and down the throat. A little bit of complexity in the malt, as it slides down, then softly fades back, leaving hoppy traces in the wake. A little creamy, slightly milky. Smooth, yes, but still interesting, memorable, rewarding, while being an exemplary drinkable stout. Clean, while complex and invigorating. Full-bodied, rich and tasty.
Hops really stick out in this, even though it's only 45 IBU. I'd love this much bitterness in a pale ale or IPA, but I'm liking it less and less in maltier beers. Is my palate changing? My taste?
In any case, it's a fine stout. I won't waste much more time going out to get more from these guys.
No comments:
Post a Comment