When I look back on my early reviews with a lower overall grade part of me feels that I should revisit the beer to see if I missed something of if my taste has changed. Of course I can’t love every beer I sample and with so many out there yet to try I certainly don’t need to be going back to already evaluated ones. Part of the reason I started reviewing is to determine what beers better suit my palate and some just do not. I should not feel too bad about it anyway since Rogue has so many beers for me to choose from and there just has to be some that I put towards the bottom of the scale. Maybe a flight of Rogue ales is in order?
Brewery: Rogue Brewery (Newport, OR)
Name: Brutal Bitter
Style: Extra Special/Strong Bitter
ABV: 6.5%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the wine fridge and served in a pint glass.
Aroma: Moderate hop aroma (somewhat fruity) and slight maltiness.
Appearance: Medium copper color. Four finger cream color head that slowly dissipates with a heavy trail. Clear with some visible rising bubbles.
Flavor: Medium to high hop bitterness with a burnt caramel/malt flavor in background. Dry/astringent finish that lingers for a while.
Mouthfeel: Medium to light body and medium carbonation. Slight alcohol warmth.
Overall Impressions: Finish is very lasting and not as enjoyable for me as many other pale ales tried. Glad to try but not my favorite (something unpleasant that I cannot pinpoint).
Grade: C+
Rogue Brewery - Brutal Bitter
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