Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Beer Review: Saranac Rye IPA

F.X. Matt Brewing Company Saranac Rye IPA

My second review of the new brews in the 12 beers of winter mix pack from F.X. Matt. The Saranac line seems to be including more rye beers lately and I can't help but be happy about this. Rye is underused and too rarely experienced. The spicy character really adds some depth to the malt flavor that can't be replicated by any yeast that I am aware of. This India pours a golden color with a nice full head. Lacing abound.

Sweet and spicy. The flavor in this brew is awesome. Very aggresive hop flavors swirl around your palette while the rye malt brings you back home. This is a big, bold, and hoppy beer that is as close to balanced as you really want an IPA to be. One of these days I have to get a nice rye sandwich and pair these up. Maybe with some Russian dressing to mix things up.

If you are craving a serious helping of hops and want something a little different from your usual IPA this will hit the spot. I love these mix packs. F.X. Matt has the right idea with the constant rotation of their brews. New and long lost brews really keep things interesting.

Final Score: 87% (Spicy and Hoppy. Not a Single Punch Pulled. Delicious.)

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