Try?
As much as any food, and perhaps more than any other beverage, beer today is a local phenomenon, especially here in the United States. For a time that was almost lost to us with the dominance of a few large brewers (Coors, Anheuser Busch, and Miller) following the end of prohibition in 1933 until the early nineteen eighties. Thanks to the efforts of homebrewers and consumers who had tasted how varied the taste of beer can be when they traveled abroad, however, small regional brewers have made a comeback in this country and produce their distinctive and regional beers that are often available only in a small area around the brewery where they are produced.
On February 18th of 1998 I wrote this about Stove Pipe Porter:
This is one of my all-time favorite porters. I recently downed several draught pints of this brew, and one of the greatest compliments I can pay it is that it was virtually indistinguishable form the bottled version. It's the bottled product I'm sipping and remarking upon this evening, and it is a treat indeed for any beer enthusiast. The nose is packed with a grassy hop aroma that blends with a signature note of caramel common to most Otter Creek beers. These characteristics are well represented in the palate as well where they combine with an espresso-like roastiness and strong suggestions of licorice. Each flavor is held perfectly in balance by the others here, none is allowed to dominate, and all ultimately give way to an impressive bitterness in the finish. One of America's finest porters, to be sure.
One of my favorite small, local brewers is Otter Creek. Nestled in the
scenic Vermont countryside, Otter Creek produces a distinctive array of
tasty ales that you won’t easily find outside New England. The brewery takes
great pains to ensure that its beer is always sold fresh and won’t force
large, unrealistic quantities upon retailers in order to make a fast buck.
One of my favorite Otter Creek beers is the Stovepipe Porter. Jet-black in
color with a creamy white head, the brew has a rich roasty nose and a palate
that’s just as bold. Rich, chewy, and loaded with hints of caramel and
espresso, the beer finishes perfectly with a bitterness that is both grassy
from the hops and roasty from the dark malts used. Try it with local Vermont
sharp cheddar, some maple candy, or Vermont’s own Ben and Jerry’s ice cream.
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
