Benefit Q. Cumberpatch
Altitude Chophouse & Brewery

one of their limited release beers in here, cool how ambitious they are getting with some of their stuff. this is great, and all for a good cause apparently too, which is part of the name. it reminds me of a spa day ive never had, like cucumber slices over my eyes, facial mask, plush robe, that sort of thing, herbal infused ice water, all things healthy and botanical and rejuvenating and relaxing, and thats how this drinks. despite being fashioned as somewhat of an imperial kolsch, its a light beer, somewhat stronger for the style, but perhaps the little extra alcohol and grain to get it there are needed for balance against all of this cucumber, which is forward and natural the whole way, start to finish it drives this beer. waxy and green and vegetal like the thick peel, fleshy and quenching and lush like the flesh, hints of aloe and green pepper too, really summery and clean, some light pils type malt underneath it with a german flair. the flavor is light in terms of grain and yeast, but its got a recognizable mineral profile and is european to me, still distinctively dry and crisp like i want the style to be, the extra strength is not at all a distraction here. the cucumber is bold but honest, and i like this in the context of lighter food, summer flavors, hot weather, and overall its a nice expression of the cucumber in a style that seems naturally inclined to support it well. smart beer, the intangibles are all right, and it is impressive on the whole. better beers than expected here, they got it going on in the brew house!