Beer Thoughts - Allagash Hugh Malone

Allagash Hugh Malone

Belgian Style IPA

Bottled: 7/23/15

De-Bottled: 11/14/15
ABV: 7.3%

Pours slightly opaque into a Lenox pilsner. Moderate hoppy bitterness hits first. Not overwhelming, very pleasant and manageable flavor. these hop flavors trail off into a slightly sour, bitter finish. One of my favorite beers of this summer. I had the opportunity to try fresh a few months ago and I am still just as excited about this beer now. Tastes wonderful.

Beer Thoughts - Founder's Backwoods Bastard

2015 Founder's Backwoods Bastard

Bottled: 10/06/15

De-Bottled: 11/12/15

11.6% ABV

Definitely a bit of oak in this one. Raisins right off the front. Warm finish for a minute or two. There is a bit more of the bourbon flavors on the finish. I was drawn to the beer really on labeling alone. Sort of a mysterious hermit character with a double bit. I'm not hugely for or against oak-aged beer, I have had good and bad examples. The backwoods bastard is great. High drink-ability, appropriate bitterness, balanced by tart fruit flavors.  I have a lot of faith in Founder's ability to release great beer. This beer is  no exception.