Haas Hop | Kulshan Brewing Company

3.52/5  rDev 0%
look: 4 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 3.25 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.5

Poured from the 32 oz growler purchased at the brewpub in Bellingham a few days ago. A lovely appearance in the tall glass with a big foam and deep mahogany color. Nicely carbonated in the mouth. Medium body with a malty substance.

This does taste like a Scottish Ale, and more so than a couple of other Northwest examples I've had lately. It also feels a lot stronger than the advertised ABV. Rather sweet and bitter overall. Hints of candy and caramel, with a plenty of dark roast malt.

The hops seem rather shy at first. It takes half a glass before they provide much bitterness. The don't seem to contribute much else. Personally, I'd say this would be a really good brew with more fragrant or appropriate hops, especially with a style not known for this extent of bitterness. Apparently named for Barth-Haas Group which provides hop products and services out of Yakima.

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3.77/5  rDev 0%
look: 3.75 | smell: 3.5 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 4.25

A one-off "Experimental" ale, with random malts and hops, this is probably the starting point for a new brew. The owner asked me to not enter this beer, but screw Dave! Oh, wait, he just told me I had to pay to be his guinea pig. Bastard!

Poured into straight pint glass, with less than 1/4 inch of tan head that had low retention and lacing. An aroma featuring a strong roast aspect in the front, had an underlying sweetness, and some floral hops.

The taste was also roast forward, with the grainy hops playing a nice counter-point role. The hops were understated, while providing a nice balance. Drinkability was very good, my pint went away very quickly.

Overall, a pretty decent beer. Admittedly, an experiment, and the final product will be different, but still very tasty. Come to the Ham, and "Get Some" while you can.

PS: I found this to be closer to a CDA than a Scotch, but it was an interesting combo of the two.

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