Hop Trail Strong Amber
Deschutes Brewery

Amber appearance around an inch of white head, good retention. Aroma hit with lots of hops and bitterness, similar to the top dogs in style (Loakal Red, Nugget Nectar, Zoe).

This is a pretty good amber ale, not overdone on the malt bill and a hopping rate that isn't exotic but balanced out the beer and even then some as the hops keep shining with the usual pine and grapefruit feels. Bottle this one.

Dark amber appearance, good off white head to it, about 1" deep. Aroma, tons of bitterness, lots of hops, not quite nugget nectar territory, but this one had me thinking of that beer quite early.

They say 2 secret variery PacNW hops, tastes like Cascade to me. Solid malt base to weigh this beer just enough that the bitterness doesn't overwhelm the hopping. The 7% alcohol really isn't all that noticeable, this is an elite level amber ale I think.

On-tap at Deschutes Public House Bend 7.14.2010, $3 for a 12 ounce 'shortie'. 7.0% ABV, 52 IBU. Listed under Pub Specialty on beer list.

1/2 finger white head (minimized by small pilsener glass), quick dissipation with minimal lacing. Clear amber body, some carbonation rising from bottom of glass. Nose features a good dose of caramel malts, balanced by resiny and floral hop notes. The taste is a bit sweet up front, cherry-like (crystal malt), pears, some white pepper, with resiny hoppy finish, not overly bitter but it does get your attention. Mouthfeel is medium-full, significant effervescence, and a bit sticky. Drinkability is pretty good, ABV well hidden. Though the hops in the beer are a bit of a secret, this was a nice one-off, though not in the league of Nugget Nectar, etc.