31 January 2017 The Alchemist Focal Banger

The Alchemist Focal Banger

January 31, 2017 By

Focal BangerI attended a charity dinner last night where I was fortunate enough to taste the fabulous Focal Banger by the popular Vermont brewery, The Alchemist. The brewery doesn’t sell outside its immediate market so it was a treat to be able to taste it in my home state of New Jersey.

Hazy and medium golden in the glass, this American IPA offers aromas of spruce and citrus. Very hoppy with bitter aftertaste in the best possible was. Herbal, citrus and floral taste with a medium, crisp body.

Brewed by: The Alchemist, Stowe, VT

Style: American IPA

Alcohol by Volume: 7%

Color in the Glass: Hazy medium golden

Format(s): Can, on-tap

Ideal Glass: Shaker or tulip

Filed Under: Beer Reviews Tagged With: , , , , ,
19 November 2014 He’Brew Death of a Contract Brewer

He’Brew Death of a Contract Brewer

November 19, 2014 By

CILAGER_TAPFor 17 years, Schmaltz Brewing Company was a contract brewery in San Francisco. In May 2013, the popular brewery settled in its own facility in Clifton Park, NY and hence comes the name – Death of a Contract Brewer.

I was excited to see this Schmaltz Brewing beer on an extensive beer list in Phoenix during a recent trip. When I ordered it, the bartender said “it’s a big brew”, I said “right up my alley”, he smiled and said “nice choice”.

This black IPA has floral, almost citrus aromas. Darkly-roasted malt flavor with chocolate and mocha notes. Dry, pleasantly bitter finish. One of the best brews I’ve had of late.

Brewed by:  Schmaltz Brewing Company, Clifton Park, NY

Style: Black IPA

Alcohol by Volume: 7%

Color in the Glass: Opaque black with 1″ tall light tan head

International Bitterness Units: 70

Format(s): Bottle, on-tap

Ideal Glass: Shaker or tulip

Cheers,

Veronique

Filed Under: Beer Reviews Tagged With: , , , ,