Sticke Altbier
McCoy's Public House

 

 

Enjoyed on tap at the Foundry, which is a gastropub that is attached to the main McCoy's brewpub. Poured into a standard 16 oz nonic tumbler.

Appearance - Looks like a pretty traditional alt, a tarnished copper color with hues of amber and brown in the body. Pockets of walnut and burgundy red as well. Head is about a finger thick, and slightly tan white. Retention is light, leaving a sparse bit of lacing on the top of the liquid.

Smell - Aromas of walnut, gentle maltiness and subtle sweetness. Toasted bread and crust shine through as well.

Taste - Reminiscent of a cross between a traditional American Amber and an American Brown ale. Hop profile is minimal, with just some slight bitterness to set off the sweeter malt characteristics. Some hints of dried dark fruits, like figs and dates.

Mouthfeel - Incredibly smooth and drinkable. Moderate-to-low carbonation and medium body.

Overall, a very tasty beer that I would drink again when in the right mood. Altbier isn't an incredibly common style in the states, but when it's done well, it's very good. This one is done quite well, so I'm not terribly surprised that Gordon Biersch, the American giant of German brewing, collaborated with McCoy's on this brew. Definitely worth a try.