Rock Art – Herb Jasmine Pale Ale

Rock Art – Herb Jasmine Pale Ale

THE POUR: Cloudy amber with light carbonation.  Little head retention with almost zero lacing around the glass.

THE AROMA: As the name implies, plenty of herbs.  Like the pour, it’s very earthy in smell.  Nice jasmine flowery freshness.

THE TASTE: Slight hint of hops accompanied by more earthy-herbal tones. Overall dry taste that is not overpowering.

THE DECISION: I like when a beer tastes similar to what you would imagine when looking at the label and reading the name. This beer accomplishes that. Overall I would like a more hoppy bite, but its unique, which is appreciated and expected by a Vermont beer.

THE GRADE: B

Long Trail Acquires Otter Creek

Long Trail Brewing Co., a Bridgewater Vermont Brewer, has agreed to purchase Otter Creek Brewery. Otter Creek, who’s popularity has been soaring as of late, is a Middlebury Vermont brewer, and home to the Otter Creek and Wolaver’s Certified Organic brands.

The acquisition joins Vermon’t two oldest craft brewers, with a combined 40 years of brewing. The brands are poised to continue to grow and develop in Bridgewater Corners and Middlebury, Vermont.

Look for the growth of all three brands, as well as the appearance of Otter Creek in more bars and beer stores across New England.

Magic Hat – Black as Night Winter Lager

THE POUR: This beer poured a thick inky black. Virtually no light was visible through the glass. A foamy, khaki-colored head topped the pour, but settled to a thinner layer.

THE AROMA: Virtually no scent to this lager, just a small sniff of sweetness.

THE TASTE: Thin mouthfeel and lightly carbonated. It tastes strongly of roasted malts with some bitterness.

THE DECISION: Surprisingly dark for a lager, I am reminded more of a mild porter. Still, I’m a dark beer fan in these colder months, regardless of style.

THE GRADE: B