Don’t Act Like You’re Mad
Aurora Brewing Co.

 

a really tasty esb here on tap at the brewery that is both authentic and distinctive, the inclusion of some local hops not common in the style is light handed but in some ways defining, and this seems local and global at the same time as well. it has a lovely rusty orange color, just a little natural cloudiness, and a couple of inches of airy off white head that hold long in the dimpled mug, presentation on point. the nose is maybe a little more hoppy than the old world examples of the style, but the freshness is awesome, the bitterness seems light, and the malt richness is there, earthy and autumnal all the way, marzen-like on the grain side really, bready and classically european with just a bit of sweetness through it. the flavor is all of this, the yeast is bready too, and the hops start to run out in front about halfway through. the finish is fast and dry for how malty this is, but the hops linger on a little bit, which i really like. it has a crispness almost like a lager as a result, a lot of the english ones dont do that, but it rules. fluffy feeling and nicely carbonated, delicious beer overall, fresh and balanced and well made. this place is fantastic, it was wonderful to finally get to visit after having become a fan of their stuff thanks to my brother. unbelievably cool operation here!