The Weekender
Foundation Brewing Company

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Pint can - dated 04/08/19 - poured into a tall flared pint at 44F.

Pours a super pale, hazy straw yellow, with a small finger of arctic white head, that recedes at a moderate pace, leavinga thick collar behind. Little-to-no lacing.

Nose: Super green, grassy hops, with a very herbaceous character, and a little bit of green onion. Some earthiness, black peppercorn, a little bit of pine, and just a hint of spicy cayenne pepper. Perhaps a hint of fermented pineapple, but otherwise no fruity notes. Very grassy, earthy, and herbaceous. Stylistically, it certainly smells like a New England IPA.

Palate: I don't know what it is, but in my experience, I have found that session IPAs always seem to showcase the greener, earthier, more vegetive side of hops, rather that the floral, fruity, juicy side. It's certainly the case here, as well. Grassy, wet straw, chlorophyll, green onion, earthiness, still with that subtle hint if black pepper in the background, all on top of a very neutral, dry, oat-forward base. It isn't lacking in flavour like many ales of this caliber, but thr flavour that's there, in my opinion, isn't entirely pleasant. It's just very earthy, green, and pungent from the strong note of chive. It tastes very plant-based. In California, we have this grassy plant, with purple flowers that has this pungent reek that's very similar to shallot/onion/garlic. In the summer, it's quite,noticeable, and it isn't particularly pleasant. This reminds me a lot of that plant. Almost savoury.

Mouthfeel/Body: Naturally, this beer is fairly light-bodied, without any real malt heft or texture. A tiny bit of oily cling from the hops, which is appreciated. It's certainly crisp and refreshing, making it quite drinkable in terms of texture, which is part of the appeal of a session IPA. There's a medium-high level of effervescence, giving a little bit of prickle, furthering the crisp, light drinkability of this one. It doesn't feel particularly watery or light, which is always a risk in brewing an ale this light. No real complaints here.

Overall: I have a lot of love for Foundation. They are pros in Maine beet culture. I can't recall anything I've had from them that I found disappointing. This is an exception to the rule, and I would caution against holding this particular offering against them, if you're not fully familiar with their lineup. I think it really just comes down to choice of hops. Had this been Citra, Mosaic, and Cascade, or perhaps Nelson, Vic Secret, and Citra/Mosaic, I think it would be good, if not great. I have a feeling Azacca is the culprit here, or mayybbee Columbus. Just a little less onion-y earthiness, and a little more fruitiness, and this would be a great little session ale. As it is, I don't think I can fully enjoy it. That's okay though, because everything else Foundation has to offer allows me to forgive this in a heartbeat.