Fritz
Black Forest Brew Haus

 

Pours a clear copper color with a fluffy off white head that disipates into a light ring. The aroma has hints of smoke and a dry fruitiness. I didn't expect the smoke but it adds a nice element to the brew. The taste is of a dry pale malt with a punch of fresh hops. There is light lemon with a metallic twang. The smoke runs throughout the flavor and seems to get stronger as the beer warms. I haven't seen smoke flavors in this style before but it works, not too overbearing, though I prefer this beer when it is colder. The feel is light to moderate with soft carbonation, finishes dry with a hoppy bitterness. An unique flavorful brew. Again, I prefer this beer colder as the smoke is more mellow which allows for the other flavors to come out.

Brewed in tribute to Fritz Maytag.

Poured a medium copper hue with a one finger foamy white head. There was good retention and lacing.

The smell featured lightly smoked malts and fruity esters.

The taste consisted of a clean, upfront smoke followed by heavy waves of fruity esters. Cleansing herbal hop detected as well.

The mouthfeel was toward the fuller side of the style.

Overall a very interesting beer. This is actually what I expect from the style, a bit unrefined as it should be by definition. Perhaps more authentic than the namesake's Anchor Steam.