10.19 - When In Mass..

Well hey now.. this beer literally JUST won a gold medal at GABF in the "other strong" category, or something.  Not sure if in recent years anyone from MA has won anything, but in "my" craft beer drinking days, it's awesome to see some great guys win a medal!  Here's why they won..

Jack's Abby - Mass Rising (2nd Anniversary Lager)

an 8.0% ABV 100 IBU Double India Pale Lager - based off the recipe for their 2nd Anniversary DIPL beer.  Their beers are a steal at between $4 and $8 for a 500ml bottle.  This had that perfect 1inch, thick head with a just-right orange/copper pour.  There's hints of a thick, dank hop profile.. but there's more peach/mango with an underlying pine/onion note.  Simple pilsner malt aroma is all I get for the sweetness.. this had a strong punch of hops up front.. piney and bitter, leading into more subtle tropical notes.  It's rather light for an 8.0% ABV brew.. alcohol is completely hidden which is scary as hell in this bottle!  A juicy, sweet finish behind all other flavors with practically no malt bill..  those bastards can make some hoppy-ass brews that are cleaner than Peter Griffin's house after Consuela with it

- - 8 Hops!