Sep 17, 2014

Gordon Biersch Golden Export

It’s been several years since I last had a Gordon Biersch beer — a group gathering for a coworker’s going away party in the McClean, VA location. I want to say that I had a lager of some sort and that I enjoyed it, but I can’t be certain given the time span. So, when I was given the opportunity to try out some of their flagship brews, seasonals and their newly released Golden Export, I jumped at the chance.

Gordon Biersch Golden Export was launched to help celebrate the company’s 25 years in the business. It’s a 5% (20 IBU) ABV German helles style brew that brings a traditional overall character with just a light zing of grassy hops. This particular bottle was packaged on August 25th and felt/tasted lively and active. A solid malt base makes for an smooth drinking and refreshing brew.

Gordon Biersch Golden Export photo

Appearance

Golden Export pours a, well, golden straw in color with a large stack of white foam that fell gently to a patchy surface cover.

Aroma

Biscuity malt, light grain, distant fruits, light floral hops, grass and a hint of honey combine for a clean aroma.

Taste

The flavors are right in line with the clues from the aroma. Grain, bready malt, light grassy hops and a touch of sweetness flow smoothly over the tongue. There’s a low-to-moderate hop bitterness leading into a fairly drying, yet refreshingly clean finish. The beer drinks easily with good body and carbonation activity.

Overall

Golden Export is a well balanced and easy drinking lager with good malt character and welcome hop presence. Needless to say, the complimentary sixer of samples the brewery sent my way didn’t last too long at all — especially with the great weather we’ve been having lately. I do believe that I’ll be stopping by the McClean location sometime soon to try this brew on tap. I could certainly use a long lunch break, I’m sure.

Rating: 3.75/5

This is a review of a promotional sample.

More: , ,