Red's Rye

Red's Rye
Rye Pale Ale
Founders Brewing Co.
6.6% ABV
70 IBUs

    12 oz bottled in 2011 poured into a Surly pint glass. Only 2011 was visible in the printed date, so it's a crap shoot.

    Pours dark amber-brown with moderate clarity and a nice and thick light tan head. The head retention and lacing, both, are par excellence. Rye, caramel, and herbal hops are prominent in the aroma. Could've been stronger but I don't know if it's the freshness :/

    Wow! Didn't expect this blast of hops in the taste. Red's Rye can easily put a few IPAs to shame. Pungent and earthy bitterness on a great malt base, this ale leaves it bitterness right into the throat.  Rye is definitely present in the finish, and complements the hops very well. The mouthfeel seems unimpressive although I can't place the exact flaw. Perhaps the body could've been heavier, but I'd rather have higher carbonation at this body.

    Overall, this beer is not so much about malts as it claims. I'd seek it whenever I need a hop fix and am bored with the fruity, floral notes of AIPAs. Good beer!

Scores: Appearance 5/5; Aroma 3.5/5; Taste 4/5; Mouthfeel 4/5; Overall 4/5