SweetWater Brewery Road Trip
When is a pilsner not a pilsner, but still a pilsner? Apparently, when the lager yeast you’re brewing with decides to call it a day and you’ve got to employ an ale yeast — at a warmer temperature than normal for most pilsners. Well, if the story on the label of this brew is true, that’s exactly what’s happened in the process of making SweetWater Brewery’s Road Trip.
The end result is one of the more uniquely flavored pilsners I’ve ever had. I would have been hard pressed to identify the style of this beer without the press sheet to accompany my tasting. It’s got the crispness and underlying character of a pilsner, but with a more pronounced, spicy hop and ale nature, as well. It both confuses and delights the palate with it’s lemony/citrusy refreshment.
Appearance
Road Trip pours a clear, golden amber in color with a smallish white head.
Aroma
Bready malts, grassy hops, lemon and grain come together nicely. I also noted hints of grape from a very dry white wine, but it was fleeting.
Taste
This was an interesting brew. It’s got the grain and maltiness of a pilsner, but the more forward hop character of a pale ale with hints of lemon. The hops are grassy and spicy with a lingering bit of astringent bitterness. The crisp mouthfeel and the hop presences make for a refreshing beer that, at 5.2% ABV, is pretty drinkable.
Overall
The three samples that SweetWater sent my way didn’t last long at all over the warmer temperatured weekend. The beer is flavorful and refreshing, perfect for relaxing outside with the dogs and family. It’s unique flavor profile certainly sets it apart from your standard pilsner crowd.
Rating: 3.75/5
This is a review of a promotional sample received from the brewery.