Post updated. See below.
Even with my own published reminder for today’s Session early in the week, I still seemed to be completely unprepared. I had planned on running out and hunting down something new and different, but work conspired against that endeavor. As fate would have it, however, I had a couple of bottles of Spanish Peaks’ Black Dog Ale sitting in the fridge.
When my college roommate and I started venturing into the world of craft beer, this particular brew was one of the first ones we sampled. To this day it has remained a favorite of my wife and myself, repeatedly making appearances in the fridge over the last several years. Now, that I think about it, this is the perfect beer for this month’s Session both in terms of style and relevance. I’m a lucky bastard.
Appearance
Black Dog Ale pours a medium amber with a reddish tint. I’m not sure if the glass was not thoroughly cleaned, but the head was nonexistent, with only a wisp of lacing on the surface.
Aroma
Sweet caramel malt and a slight floral hoppiness dominate the nose. It smells clean and refreshing.
Taste
The caramel malt that was in the nose plays a backing roll as the hops come to the forefront on the first sip. There’s a nice biting hop bitterness that’s evened out with the slightly sweeter, maltier finish. Overall, it’s an easy drinking beer with a medium body and plenty of character.
Overall
Black Dog Ale is one of those beers that I can simply have at any time, any place and pairs wonderfully with just about any meal. It’s got enough of complexity without being overly assertive, yet finishes smoothly and refreshing. I couldn’t have planned this month’s Session any better.
Rating: 3.5/5
Update: Well, it appears as though I have duped myself into believing this beer was an amber and not a pale ale. Fail. Note to self, do more research in the future.
March 6th, 2009
Rob said:
Okay, I’ll take the bait. Isn’t this an ale? Not that I’m against sabotaging the Session, don’t get me wrong!