Bear Republic Brewing Co., Healdsburg California.
I wasn't aware that
this brewpub bottled their beer,
but I'm certainly glad they do. I
got a good indication that this
would be a well-hopped beer as
soon as I popped the cap and got a
big whiff of piny hops. A minimal
head formed as I poured the bright
orange beer in my glass, the
combination of caramelly malt and
the aforementioned hops in the
nose brought pineapple to mind.
This beer has great balance. The hops make a big impression, but the malt body is substantial as well (American, English, Belgian malts with some dextrin malt thrown in for good measure). Toffeeish malt body gradually leads to an impressive aromatic piny/bitter hop finish (Cascades and Centennials used). This beer is aptly named, I'd call it exceptional even if Bear Republic didn't.
And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.
*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.
(B)=Bottled
(D)=Draft