Project X: Nugget
Portsmouth Brewery

 

 

Picked up a bomber from the brewery store. Poured in a tumbler pint, the beer is a bright, honey-orange coloring with a frothy, light, white head that starts a solid inch and a half and slowly settles into a clingy, filmy coating. Steady flow of carbonation throughout the brew. Aromas of tropical fruit, a subtle hops peppering, and a touch of caramel sweetness. There is a hint of roast in the nose, as well, which helps to balance, and a tangy character that doesn't quite fit in with everything else. Flavors of resiny hops on the forward tongue, with a peppery and slightly char follow-up profile. Tropical fruit flavors slide in after, with a solid presence of grapefruit, mango, and pineapple. The pepper and resin character from the hops remain strong across the palate and into the aftertaste, which is both bitter and roasted. Tartness from the grapefruit characteristics make their way into the aftertaste, as well. Smooth, full bodied brew that leaves a dry, clean finish.

 

 

First had: on tap at their brewpub

Seems like everyone is doing single-hopped beers these days. Hazy copper pour, with a small white head that retained as a ringlet and left some lacing on the glass. Aroma of bitter hops and a pale malt base. Pretty standard stuff. Taste of leafy, herbal hops, generously bitter, with a standard malt base for some sense of balance. Light-medium body, and fairly drinkable, if a little stale in the aftertaste. Not bad overall, but a sampler was a good amount.