Key West Sixth Lime Pie-P.A.
West Sixth Brewing Company

 

 

More and more citrusy all the time, such advancements from hop growers and preparers have allowed a firm lime character to emerge. With that, the West Sixth brewers push that one step further by giving those hops a home in a key lime shell.

The hazy amber ale nearly mesmerizes the senses with its immediate aromas of lime and a host of other citrus and tropical character. Supported with the light toasty sweetness of malt and a notion of graham cracker arises.

The hops develop over the middle, going from pink grapefruit, nectarine and bright, juicy lime to passionfruit, mango and tangy kiwi. With the tart sweetness of malt and its toasted undertow dissolving on the palate, the hops morph from acidic taste to gripping bitter resins nearing finish.

Reminding the mouth that the IPA style is front and center, the bright and zesty key lime flavor is overtaken with grapefruit pith, pine needle and acute bitterness. Medium-dry in body, the tangy dessert flavors sell its Key West taste so extraordinarily well, that it makes the aggressive hop bitterness seem out of place despite being normally celebrated in the style.

 

 

 

Pours a slightly hazy copper with a modest cream head that leaves little lacing and a skim foam.

Grapefruit, citrus zest, resin, pine, a touch of vanilla, and key lime juice explode in the aroma. There's a subtle floral hop character, and gingery graham crackers round out the profile. Smells awesome.

Flavor reveals that tart key lime character at the forefront, which is more subtle than in the actual pie, with just enough balance of sweet malt, vanilla, and graham cracker notes to give the true key lime pie impression. The finish is bitter and resiny, to clean the palate and leave me wanting another sip.

Body is moderate to a touch full, smooth, with carbonation on the low side and modest alcohol warmth.

I love key lime pie martinis. Probably my favorite guilty pleasure cocktail. I've had key lime beers before, with lighter styles at the base, and they pale in comparison. I wouldn't drink this as a session beer, but it's damn good to have one for a desert or nightcap. More muted flavor than a slice of pie, but it is a beer, after all.