McKelvin Cypress Reserve
1623 Brewing Company

 

From a 12oz can purchased at the brewery. 1623's offerings are all stellar; but this one stands out from the rest. It pours a lovely deep, glowing shade of hazy amber (almost brown) with a massive pillowy head that eventually fades, but laces the glass nicely. Just a hint of toasted malt in the nose that makes you think you're going to be tasting one of those overly sweet ambers. But the taste is very well balanced and tempered by the hops bitterness. Even as the glass warms, the moderate mouthfeel and ample carbonation remain and the flavor never becomes overly sweet. It's easily one of the most drinkable and enjoyable beers I've ever tried. At a mere 4.7%, you can enjoy a few too. And the wood adds a touch of nuttiness that renders the whole experience nearly perfect--at least so far as beer drinking goes. Well worth a trip to Eldersburg, Maryland to give it a try!