Saturday, July 23, 2011

Beer From Around Here

I'm rounding out the three biggest Atlanta with a limited release from Red Brick Brewing; their take on the Double IPA.


I must admit that there was some strategery with this beer being my first Saturday morning beverage -- I've had it before and I specifically saved one for this purpose. I'll cut right to the chase and tell you that this beer is incredible. Although I have other favorites from this category, this one is up there on my list. We will have to see how it stands up over the course of many Double IPAs (DIPA) that I plan to have throughout the year.


FYI - A Double IPA, or an Imperial IPA, is a beer that is higher in alcohol content, has more hops profiles, and is a more intense version of an India Pale Ale... which happens to be a more intense version of a Pale Ale. [Basically the 'regular', 'large', and 'super size' extra value meals of beer.]


A unique characteristic of this beer is that it has hops sediment floating around in the beer. I had to ask the experts at my LHBS if there was something wrong with it... they assured me it was meant to be. And to be fair, I think it a) looks weird, but b) is not gross at all, and c) really gives you a great citrusy hops flavor. You can smell some piney notes in this copper/orange colored brew, and the taste has some biscuit taste that isn't too bitter because of the blast of citrusy hops that take over. In general I'd say it has a middle of the road malt profile.


I want to drink this beer with some good barbeque, or some sipcy chicken wings. You don't need to drink a bunch of these to get toasted (9.0% abv!) but this will definitely help reset your palate with the bold and intense flavors of those two food items. Which, by the way, happen to be my favorite.


Red Brick Brewing Company, formerly known as Atlanta Brewing Company, is actually the oldest craft brewing company in Georgia. They opened in 1993 and in 2007 moved to their current location. Because they have recently grown in popularity, and expanded their distribution network to beyond Georgia, they changed their name to Red Brick Brewing [after their flagship brew, Red Brick Ale] in 2010. They too, like SweetWater, have brewery tours on a weekly basis, and are a must-visit if you come through Atlanta. [Remember, hit me up and I will join you!]


I like what Red Brick is doing, and they will continue to be a staple here in Atlanta if they keep it up. Not only are the people here awesome to talk to and all around great, they have good beer and are proud of their heritage as brewers. To quote: 
"We are proud of our Southern roots, the heritage of great Southern beer, and our position as the oldest craft brewery in Georgia."
 That's what I'm talking about. I'll tell you what, Red Brick, if you keep making good beers, I'll keep drinking them. And I invite all readers to do the same. If you can't find it in your city then come visit me.


Red Brick Brewing
Double IPA
9.0% abv
"Beer From Around Here"

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