Name: Toaster Pastry Style: India Style Red Ale Brewery: 21st Amendment Brewery 7.6% Alc/Vol 74 IBUs
21st Amendment Brewery of San Leandro, California have certainly outdone themselves with this unique brew. This India Style Red Ale is LOADED with complex aromas and flavors. What amazed me most about this brew is that even with the complexity of the aromas and flavors, no one thing over-powered another. That takes brewing talent and can definitely not be ignored!
At first sight, I noticed the beautiful amber color of the ale, complimented by the slightest haze which made the beer translucent. A strong, creamy head appeared post-pour from the can and quickly reappeared throughout the drink if the glass was swirled slightly. In addition, beautiful lacing lasted along the glass throughout the duration of the drink.
On the nose, I noticed a bready, pie-crust like smell. In addition, notes of subtle sweetness pushed through, reminding me of a pie filling. This was not overly sweet, but it was present and very pleasing. Last, but certainly not least, a late piney note was detected from the prominent hops used in the brew.
As I tasted the ale, I couldn’t help but notice the full-mouthy feel that came along with the drink. It was not a heavy drink, yet it did have that full feeling. The bready, pie-crust aromas detected upon the nose were confirmed in the taste, no doubt coming from the types of malts used in this complex ale. There was an initial sweetness in the taste, though this was short-lived as it was quickly overtaken by the bitterness of a hoppy punch toward the end. Speaking of that hoppy punch…this was no mere bite as the hops used were complex and their taste was unfamiliar to me. All I know is that it was good. That hoppy kick was a perfect balance for the sweetness which was so prevalent on the nose and in the initial taste.
All in all, I can’t get away from the complexity of this beer. It hit on a variety of aromas and flavors. Like I said, there is so much going on without any one thing over-powering the other. I have to give props to the Brewer(s) at 21st Amendment. This brew is -very- well done, and their innovation is commendable.
Pick one of these up if you like IPAs, red ales, or if you just appreciate a complex brew. Cheers! #BeerReview #IPA #RedAle
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