This year, Boston Beer Company added two new beers to their Summer Styles 12-pack sampler. For about $13, lucky buyers get two bottles each of the obligatory Samuel Adams Boston Lager, Sam Adams Light, Samuel Adams Latitude 48 IPA, perennial favorite Samuel Adams Summer Ale, and the two new brews. Those new beers are Samuel Adams Rustic Saison and tonight’s beer of choice, Samuel Adams East West Kolsch.
This isn't the first Kolsch from Boston Beer, of course; they previously did Samuel Adams Spring Ale in this style. I like Kolsch, especially in the warm weather, so this beer is well-suited to the Summer sampler pack.
From the label:
Our version of the traditional German Kolsch style is fragrant and complex. The Alsatian hop we chose imparts a subtle citrus note. Jasmine Sambac, a night blooming Southeast Asian flower, adds a delicate floral aroma and flavor to this layered and refreshing brew.
Not sure the Germans would be too happy about flowers in their Kolsch but hey, this is America, we brew what we want!
Anyway here’s what I think:
Samuel Adams East West Kolsch pours to a pale yellow color with a very light head formation and a soft biscuit malty nose. Taking a sip, the beer is again biscuit malty up front with a hint of soft fruit and a delciate herbal flowery note from the Jasmine. It finishes balacned with a crisp maltiness and a gentle hop bite.
A tasty beer for the price, and a decent enough Kolsch well suited to the warm weather we're having.
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