Albatross
Northway Brewing Co.

 

A big, loose, pale yellow foam holds two and a half inches over the hazy, mango-orange beer. Pale yellow highlights show random, fine carbonation (SRM 3-5). The head turns to seafoam eventually, leaving big patches of sticky lace on a Strangebird IIPA glass.

Fresh orange pith greets the opening, eventually yielding to pine and grapefruit. Earthy grass follows and holds for the duration.

The flavor is bitter and earthy, lacking any of the fresh citrus or anticipated fruit I expect from this style. The finish is mild and lingering. Sweetness is present, although a secondary quality to the modest bitterness. The finish, and in general, the beer itself, is very earthy.

The body is medium to light with a stiff, nylon texture. Alcohol and the light fizzy carbonation are as expected. Mild astringency is not as expected.

This is a decent beer that does not warm well. I enjoyed it on a late summer afternoon while bright sunshine and big clouds drifted overhead.

 

Semi-clear gold orange appearance, soapy white head, decent retention and lacing. Grapefruit, wild flower, apricot, pine notes. Medium body, moderate carbonation.