Beer pick of the week: Weyerbacher Fireside Ale
Tuesday, March 3rd, 2009
Toasty: Weyerbacher Fireside Ale
Weyerbacher Brewing Company
Easton, PA
7.5% ABV
It will probably soon be back up to a balmy 65 degrees, but I had to pick up this smoked ale for the snowy weekend. Weyerbacher’s Dan Weirback has shown great respect for malts while many of his craft beer compatriots in the United States have been pushing International Bittering Units to the max with high-alpha American hop varieties. Fireside Ale has the unmistakable aroma of toasted malts and a hint of smokiness that is comforting and homey. Woody malts and a caramelly fire-toasted marshmallow dominate the malt profile, with a semi-sweet center of maple, cocoa, and nut contributing to the campfire vibe. Clove-like spice, tingly alcohol, and flash of citric and piney hops gently balance the malts. The finish is somewhat dull and undercarbonated, but the silky smooth body makes for pleasant sipping. Enjoy it in front of your fake fireplace.
