Session # 163
Real Ale | Phoenixx Double ESB
Extra Special Bitter (ESB) | Blanco, Texas | 7.2% ABV
One year ago: O’Fallon Whisky Barrel-Aged Smoked Porter
As I’ve mentioned before, Texas has not always been known for craft beer. Shiner may be the most recognizable still, but new breweries are popping up faster than you can imagine. In addition to reviewing Jester King’s Wytchmaker Rye IPA this month, today I’ll be sharing a Blanco, Texas beer called Real Ale Phoenixx Double ESB. It’s a beer that poured with a nice warm burnt orange color that teetered on mahogany and ruby. It’s very nice and frothy light tan head rounded out the appearance. Unlike other ESBs that tend to be more malty than hoppy, Real Ales version here had a decidedly hoppier aroma. A nice amount of pine and citrus were matched with a subtle nutty and malty base. The taste didn’t stray too far from the aroma, and the bitterness of the hops made this biggest impression. Mouthfeel was dry, bitter, and pretty well-balanced. A very good beer indeed. Rating: 87/100
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This beer can be found in these states.
Listening To: The Cool Kids “Pennies”
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Posted by Jon on April 18, 2011 at 11:10 AM
Real Ale makes some of my favorites out of Texas. Haven’t had this one yet, but if you get a chance their fall/winter seasonal coffee porter is outstanding.