Griff
Alvarium Beer Company

A: crystal clear; deep gold in color; 1 finger finely pored ivory head that receded to a wispy cap with a moderate tight collar; OK lacing;

S: bready; slightly sweet; a bit of spice;

T: follows the nose with a bit more sweetness; mild to moderate bitterness at the end;

M: medium bodied; moderate carbonation; moderately dry finish; soft;

O: easy drinking;

Drank from a 1 pint can purchased at Alvarium Beer Company, New Britain, CT
11/23/21
Served in a Willi Becher

This beer is dedicated to Griffin, the deceased “brewery dog.” There is even a QR code on the can that brings you to an app where you can access info on a constellation that was created in his memory. How sweet.

As for the beer, it was slightly hazy and medium amber in appearance. The liquid was topped by a small, frothy, bright white crown that dropped to a thick, lasting collar. After the first few sips, spotty dots of lacing trickled down the sides of the glass.

The nose was crisp and bright. Pleasantly snappy and clean. Nice crackery malt presence. A dry, powdery yeasty quality was apparent as well. As the head died down and the beer warmed, bready malt notes appeared. Freshly baked bread perhaps. Somewhat doughy and sweet. Touch of grassy hops too.

The flavor profile was solid. Like the nose, bready malt notes came through strong. Bit of caramelization. Slightly sweet. The beer turned a touch fruity in the center. Soft, grassy hop notes appeared on the back end and the finish.

Nice fluffy, medium bodied mouthfeel. Creamy, frothy and smooth on the palate. The liquid contained a finer beaded, fairly zippy effervescence that worked nicely for the style.

Sam Adams is my benchmark for Vienna lagers, and this beer seemed like a softer, smoother and more drinkable version of it. I can see myself crushing this when the warmer weather rolls around.