Thursday, January 29, 2009

Too Much of a Hoppy Thing?

This is something that has been discussed before but I thought I would add my opinion and encourage yours. Americans have been known in the craft beer world as innovators and extremists, especially when using the hop. Examples are abound in Double IPA's, Hoppier Imperial Stouts, Brown Ales, Double Whites, etc.

I will admit I am a definite hop head but I have found that my initial love with these styles has begun to fizzle a bit. Even with the "regular" American IPA, I am finding a lack of balance and drinkability. My remedy to this problem has been to turn to English beers which are more restrained and balanced making them much more drinkable when having more then one or two. Some great examples of beers with a good hop flavor but also well balanced are Wychwood's Wychcraft Blonde Ale, St. Peter's IPA and Fuller's London Pride or ESB. American versions can be found in Shipyard's IPA (they use all English ingredients) and Southampton's IPA.


I have discussed this recently with my homebrewing partner as I have been searching for a good "session" beer (a beer that can be drank all day) and have had a hard time finding a good American example available in GA. As more hops are added to a beer generally the alcohol also increases to balance it out, making more difficult to enjoy more than a few without feeling the effects. So if anyone knows of any good beers 4.5% ABV or lower with a good flavor and balance post your thoughts! And also take this weeks poll of whether you like the hoppier beers or are getting burnt out on them

~Cheers

3 comments:

David said...

What about Sweetwater Motorboat style, a dry-hopped ESB/Red Ale?

Tower Gregg said...

BALANCE ...
Ranging in 4% to 7% ABV,
these styles may appeal to you.
The American brands offer more Hop flavor.

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/style/29

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/M%C3%A4rzen

Brad @ Tower Beer Wine Spirits said...

Yeah, the motorboat was awesome, what was the ABV on that one? Stone levitation should be arriving sometime which is a nice red at 4.7% ABV and not overly hoppy.