We kicked the keg of Smuttynose OBD so on a whim went to Colonial Spirits to find a replacement. I chose a 1/6 since we’ll need to move the kegerator to the basement soon and Harpoon IPA since it’s tough to go wrong with Harpoon (and I have at least a case of various Sam Adams beers).

Harpoon describes this beer as; ” The high hopping of Harpoon IPA is not only noticeable in the nose but especially in the finish. The lingering bitter finish of this beer is not harsh or astringent, but crisp and pronounced. This is created, in part, by dry hopping – a technique that involves adding fresh hops to the conditioning beer to provide a fresh hop aroma.

This beer is floral, medium body with an aggressive, clean hop finish.”

Here’s my BA review, I gave it a B-.

Cheers, Matt

Update: Lasted 33 days, about 15 longer than expected. After having Smuttynose Old Brown Dog on tap this IPA was disappointing. I wouldn’t get this again.

Categories: Harpoon, Past Brews
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Smuttynose Old Brown Dog Ale is the inaugural keg! Since we’re calling the bar the “Black Lab Bar” I figured it was only proper to have a dog-named beer. A quick beer search on BA for “dog” narrowed it down to a few and without further inspection Smuttynose took the prize.

Smuttynose’s description of this beer; “Old Brown Dog has been cited as a classic example of the “American Brown Ale” style of beer. Compared to a typical English Brown Ale, Old Brown Dog is fuller-bodied and more strongly hopped. Old Brown Dog has been around for many years. It was first brewed in 1988 at the Northampton Brewery. In 1989 it won a silver medal in its category (American Brown Ale) at the Great American Beer Festival in Denver.”

My BA Review: “One of my favorite beers by one of my favorite breweries. Beautiful amber with a nice even head, tastes terrific, and extremely drinkable. Maybe it’s because it’s the inaugural keg in my new kegerator maybe it’s just because I’ve been drinking it… either way, I highly recommend this brew.”

1/2 Barrel lasted 50 Days and I was quite disappointed when it finally kicked. Assuming Smuttynose might be willing to fill a special request 1/6 barrel, this will certainly be one of two beers on tap.

Categories: Past Brews, Smuttynose
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