Beer prices have gone up a good amount during 2008, but no beer has seemed to sky rocket in price more than Allagash. I don’t know what it is about these guys that’s driving up the prices so much, but it’s too the point where the beers I used to get from them often (Curieux, for instance), I simply can’t justify buying any more.
So, why did I spend the money on one of their “Tribute Series” brews. Well, for one I purchased this Belgian influenced IPA as part of a birthday gift from my wife back in July. It seemed like the most opportune moment to grab a beer that I’ve been looking at for some time. Plus, it’s always easier to spend other people’s money, right?
Appearance
Hugh Malone pours a slightly opaque, golden in color with a large, orange tinted head. The foam took some time to fade, but remained as nice patch work lacing on the surface.
Aroma
This one certainly smells hoppy. There’s also a nice citrus and grapefruit presence. At 8.5% ABV, the alcohol is hidden pretty well in the nose, but does appear every so often.
Taste
My notes on this one are pretty succinct — hoppy and sweet. This one is certainly not a bitter beer, as the hop presence is mixed with a Belgian sweetness that makes for quite a smooth (and syrupy) characteristic. The finish lingers for a good while. The hop citrus and pine notes are a wonderful compliment to the sweetness, as well.
Overall
As far as spending birthday money on this one, it was by and far worth it. It’s a well crafted beer, but not sure it’s worthy of the $18 plus price tag I’ve seen on it in some shops. I would have loved to have had the patience to let this one age a bit longer in the basement, but, as usual, my desire whooped my patience’s ass.
Rating: 3.5/5
