Allagash Hugh Malone Ale
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