Hopkirk's Irish Red
Termini Brewing

I love the color. It perfectly represents an Irish setter, and for that reason alone I'm immediately imprinted with all the warmth and affection I associate with those great dogs. I know that's not an especially relevant reason to derive pleasure from a beer. But what the hell.

Hopkirk's has a non-descript breathy aroma with ivory suds. Both its turbulent appearance and gruff taste show unfiltered qualities. The taste also has a serious nutty affect that reminds me a great deal of Laughing Buddha's Pandan Brown. Curious. The flavor initially presents itself as bold, with rough edges suggestive of a strong ale. It also has a bit of exotic woodiness. But the taste has an odd way of vanishing and then resurfacing in the finish. The flavor is compelling and should be experienced for its intrigue and originality, though its lack of sustain curtails the possibility of greater enjoyment.

I know "kirk" means "church" in the Scottish dialect, so I'd like to think that Hopkirk means "hop church." It might. But the beer was named for an Irish driver on a British racing team.