Tröegs Hopback Amber Ale
Part of variety pack - best by April 7, 2007 (on box). Pours deep rubyish amber with a creamy, thin white head that leaves rings of lacing on glass. The smell is of citric fruitiness, some pine - almost like a strong PA or mild IPA. The taste is of floral, orangey citrus. Some leafiness. Sure is hoppy for style. Fresh fruits and sweet caramel soon balance it out and add complexity. Lightly toasted grains are there enough to fit in with style, though it is a nicely hopped interpretation. Clean, bittersweet finish. Creamy and medium-to-full. Coating. A very nice amber. Balanced, but certainly leans towards hop bitterness, but sweet, roasted malt keep things in line and in character for style. A nice interpretation of the style and an enjoyable brew.