Beer pick of the week: Harvest Wet Hop Ale
November 17th, 2008 by Jeff Holland in Drink
Harvest Wet Hop Ale
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Chico, CA
6.7% ABV
Sierra Nevada’s annual wet hop ale is in stores now in 24 oz. bottles that sell for about $5, a relative bargain. Made from hops that are shipped overnight from the Yakima Valley in Washington to the brewery in Chico for the ultimate in harvest freshness, these yearly special releases are a real treat for hopheads. This year’s version will please malt lovers too, with a soft, toasted-malt character and a hint of caramel. Hop bitterness is relatively restrained. The pine and citrus qualities of the iconic American Cascade hop are evident of course, along with some earthy, floral elements. The mouthfeel is satisfying, with a solid body and a dry, crisp finish. Although it lacks the leafy, oily, mouth-coating hops of the best harvest ales, this is a well-balanced and rewarding American ale.
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