Craft Beer Trends: What's Brewing in 2023 and Beyond

Introduction

The craft beer industry has been on an exciting journey of innovation and growth over the past few decades. What began as a grassroots movement has now evolved into a global phenomenon, with craft breweries popping up in every corner of the world. As we step into 2023 and beyond, it's time to take a closer look at the current trends in the craft beer industry, from emerging beer styles and ingredients to sustainability practices and predictions for the future.

Current Trends in the Craft Beer Industry

1. Hazy and Juicy IPAs Still Reign Supreme: Hazy IPAs, known for their cloudy appearance and juicy, tropical fruit flavors, continue to dominate the craft beer scene. Brewers are experimenting with new hop varieties and techniques to create even more flavorful and aromatic brews.

2. Barrel-Aged Beers Are Maturing: Barrel aging is not a new concept, but craft brewers are taking it to new heights. We're seeing more barrel-aged stouts, sours, and even IPAs. These beers develop complex flavors and aromas as they rest in wooden barrels, offering beer enthusiasts a unique tasting experience.

3. Low- and No-Alcohol Options: As health-conscious consumers seek lower-alcohol alternatives, craft breweries are responding with an array of low-ABV and alcohol-free beers. These options maintain the craft beer experience without the buzz.

Emerging Beer Styles and Ingredients

1. Hybrid Styles: Brewers are increasingly experimenting with hybrid beer styles, combining elements from different categories to create unique and exciting flavors. Examples include coffee-infused IPAs, pastry stouts, and sour IPAs.

2. Fruit-Forward Beers: Fruit additions have been popular in craft brewing for some time, but they're taking center stage in 2023. Brewers are experimenting with a wide variety of fruits, from traditional choices like berries and citrus to more exotic options like dragon fruit and passionfruit.

3. Spices and Herbs: Craft brewers are exploring the world of spices and herbs to add complexity and depth to their brews. You might encounter beers brewed with cinnamon, ginger, lavender, or even chili peppers for an extra kick.

Sustainability Practices in Craft Brewing

Craft breweries are increasingly embracing sustainable practices, recognizing the importance of environmental responsibility. Some sustainable trends include:

1. Eco-Friendly Packaging: Breweries are opting for recyclable or biodegradable packaging materials, reducing their carbon footprint and waste.

2. Local Sourcing: Sourcing ingredients locally not only supports nearby farmers but also reduces the environmental impact of transportation. Some breweries even grow their own hops and grains.

3. Waste Reduction: Breweries are finding creative ways to reduce waste, such as repurposing spent grain as animal feed or using wastewater treatment systems to minimize environmental impact.

Predictions for the Future

So, where is the craft beer scene headed in the coming years? Here are some predictions:

1. Continued Innovation: Expect to see even more creative and boundary-pushing beers as brewers continue to experiment with ingredients, styles, and techniques.

2. Sustainability as a Standard: Sustainability practices will become the norm in the industry, with more breweries adopting eco-friendly measures and promoting transparency in their processes.

3. Collaboration and Community: Collaborative efforts between breweries will grow, fostering a sense of community and camaraderie within the craft beer industry.

4. Global Expansion: Craft beer will continue to expand globally, with more countries developing their own thriving craft beer scenes, offering consumers a diverse range of flavors and styles.

Conclusion

The craft beer industry remains as vibrant and dynamic as ever in 2023, with exciting trends, emerging styles, and a strong commitment to sustainability. As craft brewers push the boundaries of what's possible, beer enthusiasts can look forward to a future filled with innovative brews and an ever-expanding world of flavor. Whether you're a seasoned beer connoisseur or just dipping your toes into the craft beer scene, there's something exciting brewing for everyone in the years to come. Cheers to the craft beer revolution!

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Craft Beer and Food Pairing: Elevate Your Culinary Experience

Craft beer enthusiasts know that there's something truly magical about the synergy between craft beer and food. While wine has long been the traditional choice for pairing with meals, craft beer has emerged as a worthy contender, offering a world of flavors and aromas to enhance your dining experience. In this blog post, we'll explore the art of craft beer and food pairing, explaining how different beer styles can complement various dishes and offering practical tips to elevate your culinary adventures.

The Synergy Between Craft Beer and Food

Craft beer is not just a beverage; it's a culinary experience in itself. The vast array of beer styles, each with its unique characteristics, opens up a world of possibilities for enhancing the flavors of your favorite dishes. Unlike wine, which often has a limited range of flavors, craft beer boasts diverse profiles that can harmonize with a wide variety of cuisines.

How Different Beer Styles Complement Various Dishes

1. Pilsners and Light Ales: These crisp, clean beers are perfect for lighter fare like salads, seafood, and grilled chicken. Their mild flavors and refreshing quality can balance and cleanse the palate.

2. IPAs (India Pale Ales): With their bold hoppy profiles, IPAs are excellent companions for spicy dishes, burgers, and rich cheeses. The hops' bitterness can cut through the heat, while the malt backbone provides a counterbalance.

3. Stouts and Porters: Dark and robust, stouts and porters are fantastic partners for hearty, savory dishes like roasts, stews, and chocolate desserts. Their roasted notes and coffee/chocolate undertones can complement the flavors of these dishes.

4. Belgian Ales: Belgian ales, including Tripels, Dubbels, and Saisons, offer fruity and spicy notes that make them great choices for pairing with diverse cuisines, such as Thai, Indian, and Mediterranean.

5. Sours: Sour beers, with their tart and acidic profiles, can be surprisingly versatile. They can add a zesty twist to seafood, salads, and even fruit-based desserts.

Practical Tips for Pairing Craft Beer with Different Cuisines

Now that you know which beer styles go well with various dishes, here are some practical tips for successful craft beer and food pairing:

• Match Intensity: Balance the intensity of your beer with the dish. Light beers with light dishes, and stronger beers with hearty meals.

• Consider Complementary Flavors: Look for flavors in the beer that complement or contrast with the food. For example, a citrusy IPA can enhance the flavors of spicy Mexican cuisine.

• Experiment: Don't be afraid to experiment and trust your palate. Everyone's taste preferences are unique, so feel free to mix and match to discover your perfect pairings.

• Ask for Recommendations: If you're dining out, ask your server or bartender for beer recommendations that pair well with the menu. They often have insider knowledge that can enhance your dining experience.

Favorite Beer and Food Pairings

Finally, here are a few of our favorite craft beer and food pairings to inspire your culinary adventures:

• IPA with Spicy Buffalo Wings: The hoppy bitterness of an IPA complements the spiciness of buffalo wings, creating a harmonious combination of flavors.

• Stout with Chocolate Cake: A rich, velvety stout alongside a decadent chocolate cake is a dessert lover's dream, as the beer's roasted notes meld with the sweetness of the cake.

• Saison with Grilled Seafood: The fruity and spicy notes of a Belgian Saison enhance the natural flavors of grilled seafood, creating a delightful pairing.

Craft beer and food pairing is an art that offers endless opportunities for exploration. With a willingness to experiment and an appreciation for the diverse world of craft beer, you can elevate your culinary experiences to new heights. So, the next time you sit down for a meal, consider reaching for a craft beer to accompany it—you might just discover your new favorite combination. Cheers!

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Tasting Notes: A Guide to Developing Your Craft Beer Palate

Craft beer has evolved into a culture of its own, with a vast spectrum of flavors and styles that can be daunting for newcomers. However, unlocking the full potential of your craft beer experience begins with developing your palate. Tasting beer isn't just about enjoyment; it's about understanding the complexities and nuances that make each brew unique. In this guide, we'll explore the importance of tasting beer, offer tips for conducting a proper beer tasting, provide a glossary of common beer flavor descriptors, and recommend some classic craft beers for beginners to practice their palate.

The Importance of Tasting Beer

Tasting beer is akin to savoring a fine wine or enjoying a gourmet meal. It allows you to go beyond the surface and truly appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each brew. Here's why it's essential:

1. Discover Hidden Flavors: Beer is more than just hops and malt. Tasting helps you uncover the subtle notes of fruits, spices, and other ingredients that may be present.

2. Enhance Your Enjoyment: Understanding what you're tasting enhances your overall beer-drinking experience, making it more enjoyable.

3. Choose Wisely: Developing your palate enables you to select beers that align with your preferences, so you're less likely to be disappointed when trying new brews.

Tips for Conducting a Proper Beer Tasting

1. Choose the Right Glass: Use a glass designed for the style of beer you're tasting. The shape can significantly impact aroma and flavor perception.

2. Observe: Start by examining the beer's appearance. Note its color, clarity, and head. These visual cues can provide insights into its flavor.

3. Smell Before Sip: Aroma plays a crucial role in taste. Swirl the beer gently to release its scents and take a moment to inhale deeply.

4. Sip Slowly: Take small sips and let the beer coat your palate. Pay attention to the initial flavors, any changes as it warms, and the aftertaste.

5. Consider Mouthfeel: Notice the beer's body and carbonation. Is it light and effervescent or rich and creamy?

6. Take Notes: Keep a tasting journal to record your impressions. This will help you remember your preferences and track your beer-tasting journey.

Glossary of Common Beer Flavor Descriptors

To effectively communicate your beer tasting experiences, it's helpful to be familiar with some common flavor descriptors:

• Hoppy: A bitter, sometimes floral or citrusy taste often associated with hops.

• Malts: Refers to the sweetness and grainy flavors derived from malted barley.

• Roasty: Describes flavors reminiscent of roasted coffee or chocolate.

• Fruity: Notes of various fruits, such as apple, cherry, or citrus.

• Spicy: Typically related to yeast-derived flavors or added spices.

• Caramel: Hints of caramelized sugars, lending sweetness to the beer.

• Bitter: A strong, often lingering bitterness on the palate.

• Grassy/Earthy: Reminiscent of grass or earthy elements, common in some hops and yeast strains.

Classic Craft Beers for Beginners

If you're new to craft beer tasting, here are some classic options to kickstart your journey:

1. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale: Known for its balanced hop bitterness and citrusy aroma, it's an excellent introduction to American Pale Ales.

2. Guinness Draught: A classic Irish Stout with a creamy texture and notes of roasted coffee and chocolate.

3. Blue Moon Belgian White: This Belgian-style Witbier offers a refreshing mix of citrus and spice flavors.

4. Samuel Adams Boston Lager: A well-rounded amber lager with malty sweetness and a hint of hops.

5. Hoegaarden Witbier: A Belgian Wheat Beer with citrus and coriander notes, perfect for those seeking a lighter option.

As you explore these beers, remember that developing your craft beer palate is a journey, not a destination. Experiment with different styles, take notes, and most importantly, savor the experience. With time and practice, you'll become a true beer connoisseur, appreciating the myriad of flavors that the craft beer world has to offer. Cheers to your beer-tasting adventures!

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The Art of Craft Brewing: A Journey Through Time

Introduction to the History of Craft Brewing

Craft brewing, a labor of love that combines science, artistry, and tradition, has a rich history that dates back centuries. It's a story of passionate individuals who have transformed beer from a mundane commodity into a diverse and flavorful experience. Let's embark on a journey through time to explore the fascinating evolution of craft beer.

The Humble Beginnings of Craft Beer

Craft beer's roots can be traced back to ancient civilizations. Early brewers, often women, brewed small batches of beer in their homes. These early beers were made using basic ingredients like water, malted barley, and wild yeast. They were often infused with local herbs and spices, resulting in a wide range of flavors.

The Evolution of Craft Beer

Craft brewing took a significant leap forward during the Middle Ages when monasteries perfected the art of brewing, producing high-quality beer that became a staple in their communities. The industrial revolution in the 18th century brought about mass production, but it also led to a decline in the variety and quality of beer, as larger breweries focused on efficiency and profit.

Key Moments and Pioneers in the Craft Beer Movement

The craft beer revival began in the late 20th century, sparked by a handful of pioneering individuals who were determined to resurrect the art of brewing. One such pioneer was Fritz Maytag, who purchased the struggling Anchor Brewing Company in 1965, igniting the craft beer renaissance. Homebrewers like Charlie Papazian promoted the idea that anyone could brew exceptional beer at home, further fueling the movement.

In 1979, President Jimmy Carter signed legislation that legalized homebrewing, a pivotal moment that allowed enthusiasts to experiment and refine their craft. The first modern craft brewery, Sierra Nevada, was founded in 1980, and it paved the way for countless others. These brewers focused on quality, flavor, and innovation, creating beers that broke away from the mass-produced norm.

The Impact of Craft Beer on the Beer Industry

The craft beer movement has had a profound impact on the beer industry as a whole. It has revitalized interest in traditional brewing methods and ingredients, leading to a resurgence of diverse beer styles. Craft breweries embrace experimentation, pushing the boundaries of what beer can be, from complex barrel-aged ales to inventive sour beers and hop-forward IPAs.

Moreover, craft breweries have invigorated local economies, creating jobs and drawing tourists to their taprooms. The craft beer culture encourages community engagement, with many breweries supporting local charities and events.

In conclusion, the history of craft brewing is a testament to human creativity and a love for the art of beer making. From its humble beginnings to the craft beer renaissance of the 20th century, this journey through time reveals the enduring appeal of small-scale, quality-driven brewing. Craft beer continues to thrive, enticing both seasoned beer connoisseurs and newcomers to explore the ever-expanding world of flavors and aromas in every glass.

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New Brew: Allagash Haunted House

Allagash Brewing is one of those breweries I wish I was able to drink more beer from, but unfortunately the distance from Boise and their distribution footprint does not make that possible. Kris sent this beer to me knowing I am a fan. I also enjoy dark ales so a “hoppy dark ale” is right up my alley.

The Allagash Haunted House pours a pitch black opaque with a strong beige head with small dense bubbles. The aroma projects roasted malt with hints of coffee.

The flavor is just like the aroma…right off the bat you get the roasty character with the mids providing a slight light roast coffee flavor. There is also a hop presence in the flavor, but with the roast it is difficult to pick out the distinct characteristics. The mouthfeel is smooth and creamy. The finish is dry and ends with a fading hop and roast.

Overall I gave this beer a 4.5 cap rating. I am not sure why I couldn’t go full 5 but when I finished the beer I was very satisfied but felt it a 4.5. Maybe it was the guilt of rating my last two beers a 5. Regardless, this beer is great and I thoroughly enjoyed it.

New Brew: BarrieHaus Beer Co. 2022 Oktoberfest Gold

Kris was kind enough to include two Limited Release Oktoberfest beers…the Marzen I wrote about yesterday and the Gold I am writing about today. Two great beers with different characteristics. Both beers could easily be your daily drinkers.

The beer pours a beautiful golden color with a slight haze. The head was an off white standing about a half finger high and disappeared in a couple minutes.

The aroma has the typical bread dough malt with a touch of caramel and some sweetness coming out as well. It is a welcoming fragrance that urges you to take that first sip.

The flavor is fantastic. You get that bready malt with some caramel in there giving you some sweetness. The good thing is there is a slight bitterness that cuts the sweetness off and makes the beer very well balanced. There is also some floral notes from the hops. Everything blends together to make a great experience.

I gave this beer a 5. Not a 10 out 5…but just a 5 out of 5. This is a good example of a beer I expect to drink when I see “Oktoberfest” or “festbier” so it is top of the charts for the style.

New Brew: BarrieHaus Beer Co. 2022 Oktoberfest Marzen

I am lucky to have a great friend in Tampa, FL with my co-host Kris McKenzie. He sent me a care package with some BarrieHaus beers. We did an interview with them on the Fermented Reality Beer Cast and I really wanted to try their beers. I was told they were going to send me some beer but it never transpired.

So last night Kris and I recorded Ep215 a few days early and we did tasting notes on two BarrieHaus beers. Both were fantastic with one of them getting a 5 cap rating. Kris sent me two Oktoberfest fest beers and I decided I needed to drink the limited release 2022 Oktoberfest Marzen tonight.

So I cracked it open and poured it into a pint glass. The color is a rich copper with a half finger beige head. The aroma is typical amber lager like…notes of bread dough and dark sugars. The flavor is so good. You get a combo of bread dough and toasted biscuits…yes both. The beer is not sweet. It is perfectly balanced. It is clean and not too heavy. The bitterness is just enough to cut any excessive sweetness. It is perfect. The best Marzen I have ever had. A 10 out of 5.

I know it sounds crazy…is it really that good?! Yes, it really is that good. A small disclaimer…I have never had fresh Marzen from Germany…so maybe I will find a better Marzen there. But since I am not planning a trip to Germany any time soon…this is my all time favorite Marzen. BarrieHaus Beer Co is a fantastic lager brewery. Go to Ybor City, FL and experience great lager beers.

New Brew: Thornbridge Pardus Banoffee Imperial Stout

So my buddy Alex brought me some beers from Europe. I had my first Budapest beer and a couple of Thornbridge beers from England. I have really enjoyed all the beers from this brewery.

So I pop the top on the 16oz can and pour it into the glass. At first I’m thinking it looked thin and really had a limited head. A good thing I don’t judge a beer by its pour alone.

So I bring the glass to my nose and the first thing that comes to my mind is a creamy caramel coated banana. The caramel aroma has that super creamy character. The banana is very subtle. I am intrigued by the aroma so the anticipation of the taste has peaked my interest.

The flavor followed the aroma. The caramel flavor is so creamy and rich. Imagine biting into a rich Belgian chocolate filled with creamy caramel…that is exactly the flavor I tasted with a hint of banana as well.

The mouthfeel is full, smooth and silky. The finish is not too sweet and very satisfying. I gave this beer a 4.75 and I am not sure why I didn’t give it a 5 cap rating. Most likely a flaw due to me drinking a few beers prior to this one.

Beer In Front Awards: Deschutes Black Butte Porter

So I’ll be posting each beer I rate for the 2022 Beer In Front Awards. Visit the website at beerinfront.com and the Awards page.

My next beer for judging is one of the beers I have been drinking for over 30 years. It is the first dark beer that rocked my socks off. It is the Deschutes Black Butte Porter.

The appearance is not so grand. It has an almost completely opaque dark brown/black color with a tan head that barely elevated a 1/3” and dissipated to a light film almost immediately. I rated this a 7 for appearance.

The aroma is nice, but also not super impressive. It has a light roasty and more burnt toffee aroma. And that is it. So it gets a 7 for aroma.

The flavor is mostly that burnt toffee but it is so pleasant and not too sweet. I really love the flavor of this beer. So I give it a 9 for flavor.

My overall rating is just an average of the scores. I drink a 6 pack of this beer at least once every 3 months. I really do enjoy it despite the overall 8 rating.

New Brew: Level Crossing Suss It Out Rye IPA

So I was looking through the beers at Brewer’s Haven, one of our local home brew shops and bottle shops, and I saw “Rye I dis Pale Ale” and automatically put it in my bag. I love rye in beer. I looked at the name of the brewery and I had never heard of Level Crossing Brewing out of Salt Lake, UT. Well I guess it was time to try them out.

The beer pours to a beautiful slightly cloudy amber/orange color with a slight off white head that disappeared quickly.

The aroma is subtle with citrusy notes and pleasant rye spiciness. Needless to say I was eager to taste this beer. Now I need to confess my blindness to purchase any beer with rye led me to obtaining a beer 7 months old…an IPA at that…so I was beginning to show concern.

The flavor delivered on both the citrus hops and rye spiciness. The body is substantial and lends to a decent malt bill and heavy resinous hopping. I can only imagine what this beer provides fresh.

Overall I am very satisfied with the beer and surprised how an Utah brewery impressed me so much with a big hoppy IPA.

I gave this beer a 4 cap rating for now and may raise it once I have a fresh sample.

Beer In Front Awards: New Belgium Fat Tire

So I’ll be posting each beer I rate for the 2022 Beer In Front Awards. Visit the website at beerinfront.com and the Awards page.

My next beer for judging is probably one of the first craft beers a lot people tried. It is a beer I drank a lot of when I was first on my craft beer journey and my wife for years called it Flat Tire. It is the classic Fat Tire from Colorado brewery New Belgium.

The appearance is a slightly cloudy golden amber with a nice fluffy off white head that stood three fingers high and jetted above the rim of my glass. I gave it a 7 for appearance.

The aroma is all caramel malt and maybe even some toffee. Not all that spectacular so I gave it a 5.

The flavor was much more lackluster than I remembered. It has a watery mouthfeel and was very subdued. Very disappointing and that six pack I bought will be a chore to finish. I’ll probably save it for my wife’s friends that don’t like strong beer flavored beers. I gave it a 3 for taste.

Overall I am rating this a 5 out of 10.

New Brew: OEC Obscura Baltic Porter

A few years ago OEC Brewing out of Connecticut started distributing their coolship beers to Boise. I grabbed a few and instantly fell in love. Over the years I have continually drank new beers as well as some of my favorites coming from this brewery and I have never been disappointed.

Today I am drinking one of my favorite styles, the Baltic Porter. I am so happy the Baltic Porter has become more popular with craft brewers.

The Obscura from OEC is very good. It is hard to describe the aroma and flavors because it is so complex and rich in favor. But if I tried I would say it has a toffee base with dried dark fruit and some tobacco mixed in for good measure. It does not come across sweet but is very well balanced with the flavors leaving only the hint of sweetness.

This is a beer I recommend anyone able to purchase try and I am sure you will enjoy it.

New Brew: Von Ebert Cold Pale Pils

I fell in love with Von Ebert the moment I tasted the beer beer. The brewery is out of Portland, OR and makes some very good beers…both lagers and ales.

The beer I’ll be talking about today is their Cold Pale Pils. It came in a 16oz can and poured a clear, effervescent straw color with a fairly minimal white head.

The aroma has a distinct grapefruit fragrance and lets the drinker anticipate the hoppy flavor.

The flavor didn’t disappoint and had a pronounced grapefruit. There is also cereal malt flavor and in the finish some grassy notes show up while providing a crisp, dry and slightly bitter finish.

I’ll tell you, I really enjoyed this beer. It was a worthy hoppy pils.

Beer In Front Awards: Anchor Steam Beer

So I’ll be posting each beer I rate for the 2022 Beer In Front Awards. Visit the website at beerinfront.com and the Awards page.

My next beer for judging is a classic West Coast beer out of San Francisco. It’s the Anchor Brewing Steam Beer.

The appearance of this beer is very nice. A clear, golden amber color with a nice dense off white head. This gets an 8 for appearance.

The aroma comes across bold with a bread dough malt fragrance. You also get a sense of sweetness from the aroma. I give it a 7 for aroma.

The taste was a surprise because I assumed it would be all bready malt. But it was mildly bread mixed with some tobacco and/or figs and burnt sugar. I gave it a 7 for flavor.

Overall I enjoy this beer and it is unique flavored and not just another lager. Overall I rate this beer a 7.

NA Beer Review: Lagunitas IPNA

I am going to start posting tasting notes and reviews of non-alcoholic beers. My wife has been my drinking buddy for 32 years. Her recent medical issues has caused her to first move to gluten-free beer and a year ago she was forced to remove alcohol from her diet. So we have been trying the different NA beer options.

Today I picked up the Lagunitas IPNA beer. She loves IPAs and hops. The beer pours like a typical Lagunitas IPA with a gold color and a minimal head. The aroma is odd…there is an off aroma where I figured there would be a strong hop aroma. The flavor was also off…not as hoppy as I thought and there is an aftertaste that I cannot pinpoint. I is also a little thin. Overall I was very disappointed but my wife liked it.

I would give it a 2.5 out of 5 for NA IPA style.

2022 Beer In Front Awards: Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA

So I’ll be posting each beer I rate for the 2022 Beer In Front Awards. Visit the website at beerinfront.com and the Awards page.

My next beer for judging is a beer from a brewery that was very popular in the early 2000’s. It is Dogfish Head 90 Minute IPA. I first tried beers from this brewery around 2007 when my wife found a loophole to have beers shipped to a local store. The mark up was crazy and she paid over $40 for a mix six pack. Needless to say none of the beers live up to the price tag. One of those beers was this 90 minute IPA.

For appearance I have to admit it is a beautiful beer. It has a deep amber color with a big, fluffy and creamy off-white head that stuck around for the entire consumption. It is a clear beer as well with a good amount of bubbles rising throughout. I rated this a 9 for appearance.

For the aroma I must admit I was very disappointed. I mostly smelt doughy bread malt with a hint of piney hops. This only scored a 5 from me.

The taste is different than most IIPAs. It has a distinct malt backbone with a strong pine hop flavor that blends into a sweet orange hop flavor. Having both bold malts and bold hops surprisingly balanced very well and makes for an enjoyable drink. For the taste I gave it an 8.

Overall this beer is good, but it is not a beer you want to have a second one in the same day. It is heavy and cumbersome and a bit strong. So my overall rating is only a 7.

2022 Beer In Front Awards: Big Sky Brewing Moose Drool

So I’ll be posting each beer I rate for the 2022 Beer In Front Awards. Visit the website at beerinfront.com and the Awards page.

My next beer for judging is a style that gets little love, but is a great one to bridge between the lighter lagers and the stronger porters and stouts. It’s the brown ale. The Big Sky Moose Drool is a classic brown focused on malts.

For the appearance it is a beautiful deep mahogany red/brown with a tan head. It is also clear with no cloudiness. I really like the appearance so I gave it an 8.

The aroma is sweeter and gives off a Carmel and toffee fragrance. It is enjoyable but not over the top. I gave it a 7.

For the flavor you get a lot of the caramel and toffee flavor and even some dates or figs. I really like the flavor and it has sweetness to it but not overly sweet. I gave this an 8.

Overall I do enjoy this beer and for a brown ale it hits on a lot I look for in the style. I gave it an 8 overall.

2022 Beer In Front Awards: Widmer Brothers Hefe

So I’ll be posting each beer I rate for the 2022 Beer In Front Awards. Visit the website at beerinfront.com and the Awards page.

I’m starting off with a familiar beer to most on the West Coast…the Widmer Brothers Hefe which is an American Hefeweizen.

The scoring is simple…rate from 1-10 on appearance, aroma and taste as well an an overall rating. As everyone knows, I rate by style so this will go against my preference for American Hef.

For appearance it is a very nice golden color with a substantial white creamy head. It’s a 7.

For aroma it has a somewhat fruity and floral hop fragrance mixed with some grainy malt. It is also a 7.

For the taste, I get some of the fruity and floral flavors as well as some graininess. But the finish is far too bitter for a Hef in my opinion. I drop a 5 for taste.

Overall I’m rating this a 6.

New Brew: Boneyard Beer Crooked Pilsner

So I have loved Boneyard Beer ever since I first stepped foot into their original brewery and tasted every beer they offered in 1oz tasters. Now that they distribute to Boise, I find myself buying six packs of their beer every week, usually the RPM IPA. But now I have found the not-so-hoppy beer I will substitute in-between.

This Crooked Pilsner is everything I enjoy in a Pilsner. I have never been a fan of the big noble hop earthy bitterness, but I have grown to appreciate them over the years. But this American Pilsner variant is right in my wheelhouse.

The beer has a great aroma of bread dough malt that follows right into the initial flavor. Quickly a light floral hop flavor balanced out the malt and the beer ends with a subtle bitterness that brings it all together while maintaining a very drinkable and refreshing, crisp experience.

New Brew: Reuben’s Brews Stay Frosty Cold IPA

So I have been raving about all the great Cold IPAs I’ve had in the last couple years. I was skeptical when I first heard another IPA subcategory was being brewed. Anyone who has been a long time listener knows how much I hated the Brut IPA. The good news is I have thoroughly enjoyed every Cold IPA beer I’ve had to date…at least 20 from breweries around the country.

So the latest entry is from one of my favorite breweries, Reuben’s Brews and it is called Stay Frosty IPA. This beer has big floral resinous hop flavor with a nice malty backbone that is crisp and clean. It was nice to have a clear IPA with a hop profile not citrus or tropical fruity (of course I love these types of hoppy beers).

I now have an app on my phone that allows me to post to the website so expect more of these small blog posts.

Cheers! Denny