The local shop I frequent has just recently been carrying a few products from Michigan’s Founders Brewing Company. Having not seen any of the brewery’s products in this area before, I snatched up a couple of bottles with a quickness. I’ve read a good deal bout this company in the past and can only hope that I am able to see more of their products locally.
The first of the batch I purchased is their Dirty Bastard Scotch Ale. Labeled as the brewery’s flagship beer, this one certainly lives up to expectations with its bold and robust presence.
Appearance
Dirty Bastard pours a dark amber with a rusty, copper edge. The head was light tan in color and faded rather quickly.
Aroma
Oh man, this smells good. I doubt I would be able to distinguish between the ten varieties of malt used in the brewing process, but I can certainly say it’s got a wonderfully sweet, malty aroma. There’s a light peat character along with mellow brown sugar and wisps of alcohol.
Taste
There’s a good deal more hops than I would have expected for the style, but they don’t detract from the overall experience. The hop presence adds a nice bitterness to the otherwise malty sweetness of the beer. The finish has light caramel and spice notes to it. The brew has a medium bodied smoothness to it that, in conjunction with the 8.3% ABV makes you want to sit back and sip this one slowly.
Overall
I thoroughly enjoyed this beer. I love the hop presence within this scotch ale that adds a little something extra to the already complex palate. Enjoy it cold out of the bottle or as a sipper, Dirty Bastard is a pretty versatile brew that will certainly be making repeat appearances in my fridge.
Rating: 3.5/5
