April Dirty Thirty Day 14 – Bell’s Oberon Ale

The weekend got me a little sidetracked but I still had one new craft beer a night and reviewed it (just didn’t get around to posting it).

Sunday’s April Dirty Thirty beer was…

Bell’s Oberon Ale

Bell’s Oberon Ale

Critical Information:

• 5.8% ABV
• Summer Seasonal

My Experience:

– POUR

Poured from bottle into pint glass. It has a hazy, golden-yellow color with a white foam head that disappears quickly. There’s a fair amount of bubbles that work their way to the top of the beer.

– SMELL

I think I get just some malt and cloves. It is very subtle.

– TASTE

Fresh, even blend of malt and hops. No strong flavors here but it’s consistently flavorful. There’s a slight bit of cloves and nuttiness.

– FOOD PAIRING

Burger with bacon and swiss. Need I say more?

April Dirty Thirty Day 10 – Shipyard Brewing Export Ale

Today’s April Dirty Thirty craft beer review is on…

Shipyard Brewing Export Ale, and yes that’s my 6-foot Nationals Stadium Fathead

Shipyard Brewing Export Ale

Critical Information:

• 5.1% ABV
• American Blonde Ale
• Available Year Round

My Experience:

– POUR

Poured from bottle into tall pilsner-type glass. It has a golden-straw color. Almost completely see-through. The tall glass makes watching the bubbles rise entertaining.

– SMELL

Malt, grains and a biscuit scent come through the most.

– TASTE

I get mostly toasted malt with some fruitiness. There is also some unexpected bitterness, a little too much for me, which appears at the end. The carbonation makes it feel “fuller” while you drink it — it’s like I try to take a gulp but it’s only a sip.

– FOOD PAIRING

I would say something from my favorite food group — sandwiches. Some sort of grilled chicken with bacon and swiss panini? Anything from Spicy Pickle would be great. I just wish there still was one around here…