Griff
Five Churches Brewing Company

Drank from a 1 quart [32 fl oz] crowler purchased at Alvarium Beer Company, New Britain, CT
Date 12.12.19
Served in a Pilsner glass

Thanks to my cousins Anne and Bill for this thoughtful Christmas gift.

Crystal clear, dark amber appearance. The liquid was topped by a fluffy, three-finger tall, ecru colored crown that quickly dropped to a medium collar. A few craggily streaks of lacing stuck along the glass.

The aroma was solid. Crisp and snappy with a big dry, yeasty presence. Somewhat powdery. Nice toasted grain quality as well. Bit of crusty bread character too. As the beer warmed, a touch of fruity sweetness appeared. The malty and fruity notes intensified as the beer warmed.

The flavor was fruitier and more malt forward than the nose. Big crystal malt presence. Slightly toasty. Moderately fruity. Apple and pear notes came to mind. Somewhat grainy and dry on the back end and the finish. Touch of noble hop bitterness too. Really crisp and clean. Like the nose, the flavor turned sweeter and fruitier with time.

Nice fuller bodied mouthfeel. Rich and fluffy on the palate. The liquid contained a larger bubbled carbonation that started rather subtle but fluffed up nicely as the beer moved along the palate.

Vienna lagers are one of the less commonly found styles at most craft breweries, and Alvarium’s rendition was very solid. I would definitely choose this over a Sam Adams any day.