Seeds And Stems
MadTree Brewing

 

On tap at the brewery. It's appropriate that the taproom also houses a wood-fired pizza joint, because I'd sum this beer up by saying it's like drinking an artisanal pizza crust. The herb aromas and earthy-savory flavor are delightful, I would love to pair this with some foods. It's also perfectly balanced for light summer drinking with full flavor -- must say I'm not a big fan of the session IPAs as a light summer alternative. Between this beer and Flying Dog's Dead Rise, I really have a new appreciation for and interest in the "savory" side of beers.

Had this on tap at the brewery. Was very intrigued by the description on this one, and it's been a while since I had an English mild. Poured a very dark brown, almost black in color. Very dark srm for such a light abv beer. Smell and taste were very similar – lots of toasty malts, mild bitterness, and just enough of the earthiness from the shiitake mushrooms and hemp seeds. Thyme and basil take a back seat on the overall flavor of this one. All of the stems, seeds, (and leaves) are nice and subtle. Nothing was overkill, which made me really appreciate this beer. The seeds and stems involved in the making of this mild definitely enhance the earthy, toasty character of this brew and make this an easy drinker. Lots of flavor for a 3.9% beer.