FestivAle ’04 - ‘05
Empyrean Brewing Company

Clear, tawny-amber in hue with a shiny ruby highlight, the color is bright and attractive. However there was no animation in the liquid, disappointing, and dull looking. It was served with a slightly off-white head, about two fingers in height. The head was quick to fade to a soapy cap. There was tons of subsequent lacing; it looked like tattered wallpaper. Overall, the appearance looks very similar to SN Celebration Ale. The nose was hampered because it was served too cold. Harder than it should be sniffs brought out aromas of citrus, pine, hop leafs too. Some aspects are kind of raw with hints of cheddar at the back. Alcohol is noticeable. The malt is clear, caramel and brown sugar. The bouquet is very nice, typical for a burly American IPA. The palate is tasty. Hoppy. Raw. Bitter. Alcoholic. Warming at the back of the throat all the way down to the belly. So far, so good! The maltiness, at times, shines with hints of caramel, vague sweetness, and some toasty brown sugar. Hops offer a jolt of citrus and some piney qualities. The palate is simplistic but very damn tasty. While I was drinking this, the thought entered my mind, “this tastes like what everybody fanaticizes the best Celebration Ale tastes like.” Subtle ale-like fruitiness tries to find a place on my tongue but the hops are really taking its toll. The finish is dry but succulent with slight sweetness. Similar aftertaste. Medium in body, a tickle too thin, very low carbonation, it could use a little more bulk (i.e. malt), still the mouthfeel is good. It could be better but this is a common problem with all Empyrean beers. This “winter warmer” is easy to drink but I’d be leery to drink too much, too soon as it does pack a punch. A hoppy beer from Empyrean Ales is a rare treat. Good stuff. I sampled this on-tap at Lazlo’s in the Haymarket.