Overload Imperial Red
Hopped Up Brewing Company

an imperial amber, sort of a relic in terms of style, but wonderfully well executed, i am sad these guys are closing up shop, i dug both beers i had when i was in. this has a rich malty light copper color to it, a high head from the tap, and more bubbles than expected for the style. it smells european to me, something about the grain, sweet notes of maple and toffee, a nutty low end, short of toasted but slightly caramelized, layered despite not being overly deep or dark, paler for an amber really, but tons of grain nuance. the flavor is like the nose, european on the malt side, with some nice layered sugars, minerals, and bready elements. hints of chestnut, almond, honey, and light wood are all present, and it hangs nicely on the palate. the alcohol is well hidden, the body is full but the beer isnt heavy, and the finish is relatively quick for being sweeter earlier on, something maybe lightly english to the ferment. all the intangibles are here, and this is a sturdy and delicious brew, something unique now in this day and age. more fall than summer for sure, but of excellent quality.