Friday, August 21, 2009

Saturday Taste 8.22.09

I figured on this typically Seattle weekend (that is to say cold and cloudy) amber beers would really hit the spot. I picked 3 examples from three different regions of the US - Washington, Colorado and Louisiana (which is actually a lagered beer). Join me at The Beer Authority on Saturday, August 22 to sample them - there is no fee but remember to bring your ID because you have to be 21 to participate!

Fish Tale Organic Amber: A Cascadian treasure, certified Organic Amber Ale is a medium-bodied beer with an appealing deep amber hue. Our malts--a pleasant blend or organic Pale, Munich, Honey, Crystal and lend a gentle sweet character which is difficult to resist. From organic Hallertauer hops come a zesty flavor and aroma that beautifully balances Organic Amber's malt character.

New Belgian Fat Tire Amber:
Named in honor of our founder Jeff’s bike trip through Belgium, Fat Tire Amber Ale marks a turning point in the young electrical engineer’s home brewing. Belgian beers use a far broader palette of ingredients (fruits, spices, esoteric yeast strains) than German or English styles. Jeff found the Belgian approach freeing. Upon his return, Jeff created Fat Tire and Abbey Belgian Ale, (assuming Abbey would be his big gun). He and his wife, Kim traveled around sampling their homebrews to the public. Fat Tire’s appeal quickly became evident. People liked everything about it. Except the name. Fat Tire won fans is in its sense of balance: toasty, biscuit-like malt flavors coasting in equilibrium with hoppy freshness.

Abita Amber Lager:
Abita Amber is a Munich style lager brewed with crystal malt and Perle hops. It has a smooth, malty, slightly caramel flavor and a rich amber color.