May 10, 2012

Karl Strauss Off The Rails 2012

Off The Rails photo

I had originally reviewed Karl Strauss Brewing’s Red Trolley Off The Rails back in July of 2011 and enjoyed it quite a bit — it was nice to find a red ale that I actually liked. Usually, when I get samples like that from a brewery, that’s it. I rarely get the chance to revisit a product, especially if the company in question doesn’t distribute to Virginia. Well, with the announcement of their new Imperial Collection, the California company saw fit to send me another bottle (along with a the others mentioned in that press release).

The specs for the 2012 release of Off The Rails is just as it was a year ago — 85.% ABV and 40 IBU. Let’s see if it still tastes just as good.

Appearance

This big imperial red ale pours a reddish copper in color with a large, light tan head. A decent bit of lacing clung to the glass as the head fell.

Aroma

The nose on this beer certainly is that of a red ale, but with a more pronounced hop character, just like I remember it. Toasted bread, subtle dark fruits, caramel and a light malt sweetness join notes of citrus and pine for a well balanced, earthy nose.

Taste

Just like I remember it. A solid hop presence certainly separates this from most red ales. The malt backbone has a light sweetness to accompany toffee, caramel and a light toast as the hops arrive in the back half with plenty of pine and citrusy tones. The higher alcohol content is masked well, though it will catch up to you. The beer is medium bodied and well balanced between your traditional red ale characteristics with a West Coast hop flair.

Overall

I’m not the biggest fan of red ales (as has been documented many, many times on this site), but I thoroughly enjoyed Karl Strauss’ Off The Rails once again. The earthy, piny character of the Willamette hops used it the recipe give the beer a West Coast flavor profile that doesn’t compete with the strong malt backbone, making for a beer that is easy to drink and full flavored. If you liked this beer last year, you’re sure to enjoy it again in 2012.

Rating:4/5

This is a review of a promotional sample received from the brewery.

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