Eastlake the Raccoon and the Bear

Eastlake the Raccoon and the Bear. 5.9 % ABV. 41 IBU.
Eastlake Craft Brewery, Minneapolis, MN.

I've checked into this beer on Untappd twice: this one here, and four years ago, when it was first released. Why has it taken me so long to review it? Well, back then I didn't review their beers because I worked there, and chose not to offer my opinions on them. Since then, we've had a history, but now I assess their offerings with a free mind.

Now, on to this beer named for a couple of the forest characters they've been randomly using in on their coasters and glassware since the start.

Clear, deep crimson, large, lush, creamy-toned head.

In the nose: floral, sweet, fresh, delightful.

In the mouth: Tasty, from the start.
Pine needles, birch sap, bark, spruce, wood, hops, and all the trimmings of the forest floor.
Rich and malty.
Tasty. Bright and highly likable. Conspicuously bitter, well-balanced, terrifically delicious.

Feeling adventurous? We’re in the forest now, baby. Fir tips and red cedar shavings were added to this flame-red hoppy American Amber Ale for a bright upfront woodsy whack and a clean citrus afterglow. Belgian red malt brings a unique malty layer, and Simcoe & Chinook hops double down on the coniferous character. Just one sip and you'll be pining for more.