Wednesday, November 16, 2011

Otter Creek Copper Ale

Otter Creek Copper Ale is a German-style Altbier under section 7A of the BJCP style guidelines. Introduced by the brewery in March of 1991, this medium bodied amber ale is characterized by a well balanced blend of malty notes and mild bitterness.

Alcohol Content: 5.0%
International Bitterness Units (IBU): 32
Malts: 2-Row, Munich, Caramel 20 & 60, Carapils, and Roasted Barley
Hops: Nugget, Hallertau, & Tettnang

Medium: 12oz bottle purchased and poured into a standard pint glass
Price: $13.00 for a 12-pack Otter Creek Sampler

Aroma: Subtle hop aroma masked more by its malty sweet tones. The aroma initially reminds me of a german lager, maybe due to the use of Munich malts.
Appearance: The overall appearance was a dazzling dark amber with some copper undertones. It was impressively clear with steady bubbling that was consistent with moderate to low carbonation. Consisted of an off-white foam that had an excellent head retention until the very last drop.
Flavor: It was initially sweet with a subtle bitterness; but, after the second and third sips I noticed the release of more of its bitter potential that lingered on the pallet. Some noble hop flavors were present. Definitely some sweetness from the caramel malts, but its flavor profile fits more consistently with the use of Munich malts that contribute to its toasted character.
Mouthfeel: Moderate to heavy carbonation coincides with a medium body wavering more towards the heavy side. The rich malty textures are followed by a warming sensation that goes down very smooth.
Overall Impression: This is an excellent beer that is extremely well balanced. However, I would particularly like to see it be a little less resemblant of a german lager and more of an ale, but hey.. its a hybrid.

2 comments:

  1. Nice!
    Perhaps for the OI recommend the beers for certain occasions? Aka parties, bar scene, sipping, swigging, post run recovery, for sharing, worth a six pack, a keg?

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  2. Thanks for the input! I'll definitely expand on that. I like trying to research the beer too so I become more familiar with the appropriateness of the style. I used the BJCP rating scale (/12 for aroma, /3 for appearance, etc.)

    I still read some of your posts occasionally too. I'll usually check out a few at a time when I'm on - I have your link on the right side so I can access it quickly :)

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