Beer Pick of the Week: Roxy Rolles
January 14th, 2009 by Jeff Holland in Drink
BORN TO BE WILD: Roxy Rolles Amber Ale from Magic Hat
Magic Hat Brewing Company
Burlington, Vt.
5.1% ABV
I was introduced to this redhead in the Magic Hat Feast of Fools winter sampler pack and was hoping I could find it by itself in a sixer. Lo and behold, there it was, and I’ve been going back to it again and again. Billed as a hoppy amber ale, it’s very approachable and makes a great everyday drinking beer. Simcoe hops are added after fermentation, and their piney, grassy character is evident in the nose. There’s also some sweet, toasted malt and a bit of yeasty sourness that make a solid first impression. The taste is equally complex, with woody, herbal flavors nicely balanced by a slightly tart cherry and apple tang, and a soft caramel sweetness that gives way to a dry, citric finish. Roxy Rolles is proof that drinkability doesn’t have to equal banality.
(Photo by Jeff Holland)
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