Hop Queen Pilsner
Russian River Brewing Company

 

a well hopped and very flavorful pils type, with ample bitterness, distinctive herbal character thats presents like more than just noble hop varietals, more modern even though still traditional somehow, almost juicy for what it is, grassy and herbal yes, but also with lime and sort of waxy honeycomb floral character too, nice with the fresh and robust european pils malt foundation this seems to have, white bread and minerals and just a bit of sweetness to me in both nose and taste. this is golden with some shine, but not too polished looking, an average white head sits on top and sprinting carbonation rushes up to join it. the hop bitterness kicks in earlier than normal to me, not quite mid palate, but way before the swallow, not crazy intense but its bold enough to add some pep for sure. subtle green melon and even lemongrass nuance somewhat unexpected in the style, but also clover and hay and more classic hop components, some oils on the palate too. smooth and bready, refreshing but sturdy too, old worldy lager yeast well used, and this drinks crisp and patient, hop forward enough to be kind of modern, pretty hop profile too, distinctive and bright, freshness abounds and this ended up being a delicious and full flavored pils with lots to discover. delightful if a little more substantial than many, doesnt limit how much of this i want at all.

 

Had on tap at the Tides Restaurant Bodega Bay, CA.