Fermentation Without Representation
I’ve had a few Epic Brewing beers over the course of the past several months, but this is the first time I’ve had anything from them that was part of a collaboration with another company. This beer also marks the first time I was able to get anything from D.C. Brau, the newish brewery out of the nation’s capital.
Joining forces, the two companies have come together to craft a pumpkin ale that’s built off of a porter base. The result is a beer that is a bit muddled in terms of flavor. I was truly excited to try something from D.C. Brau, but this isn’t quite the introduction that I was expecting. Perhaps I was too excited, but this brew just left me sort of puzzled.
Appearance
The beer pours a reddish brown in color with a dense tan head that faded slowly.
Aroma
A roasty character with a light hint of cocoa, earthy pumpkin and subtle spices. It was tough to pull out the pumpkin, but as the beer warms it starts to come through more. There’s also a hint of piny hops in the mix.
Taste
Huh. I’m not entirely sure what to make of this brew. I get a solid roast, not much pumpkin and a touch of spices. The medium body is nice, but the finish (with light hop bite) is way too drying — it’s not chalky, but close. The 7.3% ABV is well hidden throughout.
Overall
I essentially purchased this beer solely for the D.C. Brau involvement and the crazy low price was just too much to pass up. It left me a bit disappointed and, well, I hope the next time I have a chance to try something from the District-based brewery, it leave me with a better impression.
Rating:3/5