Beer of the Week: Smuttynose Maibock

Beer score: 8.4

Company: Smuttynose Brewing Company

ABV: 8.7
IBU: NA

The flavor here is RICH, as in flavor. The price is actually very decent. But that flavor kicks you right at the first sip. And what is that flavor? It's difficult to describe. Kind of grainy, as in wheaty, almost like this brew came right from a farm field and was served to you. Has a fine caramel smell, and there's a hint of fruit, perhaps citrus or grape, in the back of that scent. Goes down smooth though there is a strong alcohol flavor with fruity undercurrents right at the back of the tongue.

Goes well with broiled pork chops and potatoes, I can say. Might be a little too strong for drinking every day of the week, but if you're in the mood for something different, then this beer is more than worth considering.

Comes from the Smuttynose Brewing Company of Portsmouth, New Hampshire, and those folks should be proud of this brew.

A maibock is traditionally a light-colored lager with a robust amount of alcohol, and that's the case here. The Smuttynose folks put out a new maibock each Spring, and the one I tried was for 2011. I'll be looking for this one again for future years.