Samuel Adams Hallertau Imperial Pilsner
12 oz. bottle, poured into a tulip, have been really anxious to try this, served at approximately 50 degrees Fahrenheit, A: Pours a hazy, light orange, not gold as I expected, with a thick great white head, which is legitimate in height with great retention all through the drink, great lacing as well, the higher alcohol brew just coats the glass when drunk, certainly a great looking beer. S: Lighter than I expected, very hoppy though, lots of pine, some citrus and earth. T: Taste is quite hoppy, some pine, a lot of earthy grassiness, there is a bit of toasty malt, but the showcase of Hallertau noble hops steals the show. The aftertaste is interesting, the hops last on your tongue for a long time, with a hint of ripe cheddar cheese, or a light gouda, sublime. M: Very creamy, rich carbonation, a bit phenolic and medicinal, a bit alcoholic, metallic, medium-bodied. D: An interesting beer, I've never had a Double/Imperial Pilsner, so I didn't know what to expect. The hoppiness is not extreme about the same as an average IPA, I would wager about 50-70 IBUs, but that is a guess. Definitely the hoppiest Sam Adams beer I have ever had. A satisfying beer, to be sure, glad I bought it and that it came to Southern California.