My aim for the Friday beer review lately has been to make sure that I find one that I have not lost the picture for. That is step one. Beyond that the decision has often fallen to either which one is currently most appropriate to share or which one is far overdue for posting. So when I found a few beers that were 2009 releases, I figured it would be best to share them before the 2010 releases become available. That made my decision for today quite easy.
After I get through the few that fall into that category, I will get back to doing the most current ones on Friday (after the older ones on Tuesday). I like to have a consistent plan of attack.
On to the show . . .
Brewery: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. (Chico, CA)
Name: 2009 Southern Hemisphere Harvest Fresh Hop Ale
Style: American IPA
ABV: 6.7%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in a mug (mostly because I am sick of using a pint glass at the moment). 24 ounce bottle.
Aroma: Even (not harsh) floral hop aroma with (maybe) a hint of citrus and some faint sweetness.
Appearance: Copper color with some reddish-orange highlights. Two finger (plus), almondish color head that slowly dissipates with some laced trail. Very clear with a few visible bubbles rising.
Flavor: Medium level of (somewhat floral) hop flavor with a moderate amount of hoppy bitterness. A low amount of malty sweetness. The finish is with some slight bitterness, but without any lingering harshness. Well balanced, though favoring the hop flavors slightly (just the right amount).
Mouthfeel: Medium body with medium to high carbonation (that adds a very slight sharpness behind the bitterness). Smooth and almost creamy on the palate.
Overall Impressions: Really enjoyable to drink with an excellent level of hop bitterness that was not at all harsh. Just what I was looking for when I pulled it from the fridge.
Grade: A (to A-)
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. - 2009 S.H. Harvest Fresh Hop Ale
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