Beer pick of the week: Hop Shortage Ale

Hop Shortage Ale

Terrapin Beer Company

Athens, GA

ABV N/A

The first in Terrapin’s Side Project series of limited releases throws caution to the wind in the face of the on-going hop supply crisis, loading up this refreshing pale ale with tons of fragrant, juicy hops. Fresh floral and citrusy hops dominate the aroma and taste, with a grapefruit bitterness and some peppery spice. The light, fruity malts peek through briefly with the taste of fleshy fruit, like apricot and peach. A pleasant bitterness hits the sides of the tongue, leading to a dry, lingering finish with a citrus bite. This is a surprisingly light-bodied beer, more pale ale than IPA, very crisp and well attenuated. No ABV is given, but there’s no noticeable alcohol bite, so this one is likely no more than 7%. While it is not particularly complex, Hop Shortage is easy drinking and satisfying, perfect for spring sipping al fresco.

(Photo by Jeff Holland)