Monday, May 13, 2013

Zoe - A Happy, Hoppy, Amber Ale



The beer I selected  for my first beer of American Craft Beer Week was a good one and it earned me a special badge from Untappd.  

I've enjoyed every beer I've had from Maine Beer Company so far.  Peeper Ale is a yummy mix of malt and hops.  Lunch with its sweet malt and citrus is delish.



One of the things I like about Maine Beer company - besides their beer, of course - is their minimalist packaging.   Not that I don't appreciate and love fun creative labeling but there's something to be said for simplicity.  I like it. 

Zoe (7.2% ABV) has a cute smiley face on the label and a fun tagline - Our Happy, Hoppy, Amber Ale. :)

It poured a dark reddish brown with an big off-white head.  I would have expected a lighter color; this brew is pretty dark for the style. It's pretty dense in complexion with some sediment floating around.  

The aroma is pretty malty with a good blast of hops.  Lots of citrus and resin.  Mmmm, mouthwatering.

The flavor was bigger on malt than on hops.  Caramel and biscuit dominate, although there is a plenty of grapefruit and pine to balance out the sweetness. There also some undertones of chocolate which adds additional complexity.  The finish is mildly bitter and dry, but there is a lingering yeasty breadiness that's very nice.

The carbonation is very lively and the mouthfeel is spot-on medium.  

Zoe is a very drinkable ale.  Very tasty and a good example of the style.  I wish I hadn't had to share. 

Overall: very good.




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