Saturday, August 25, 2012

Stiegl Radler Lemon, Austria

Stiegl Radler Lemon - 3/5

I stumbled upon this one whilst browsing the beer isle at my local supermarket and it looked quite interesting and rather cheap. Having spent a few days in Austria I don’t recall drinking any of their local brews. I guess the hills we not alive with the sounds of people drinking Stiegl Radler Lemon.
It poured out a lovely golden yellow with a bright, white frothy head. I think my expectations were a little high as I was hoping for something very lemony. There was a faint yeasty, lemony smell which was somewhat pleasant but the taste seemed rather uninspired. I feel like fruit notes in beers need to be very subtle or quite predominant and in this case it was neither. All I got was a very light malt and a mediocre taste of over ripe lemon.
Having said all this you might be questioning my three out of five rating. I had just been out on the bike and I was in desperate need of a cleansing ale. Although maybe not the best man for the job, this beer really hit the spot. Any other day and it might have received a point off.

Stone Arrogant Bastard – Stone Brewing Co, Escondido, CA

Stone Arrogant Bastard - 4/5

Arrogant Bastard is the epitome of San Diego style brewing. It’s bold, hoppy and in your face. The attitude with this beer is that if you don’t like it then you’re not worthy and let me tell you, you better like hops.
Unlike their IPA which to me is all hop, Arrogant bastard is a better balanced beer but not as perfectly balanced as their pale ale. You will get a nice caramel and florally hop smell which is not as aggressive as the taste. In the mouth there is a strong citrus and floral hop followed by a rich caramel note.
If Stone Pale Ale had a ugly, overly aggressive, pubescent, older brother or friend then this would be it. It’s the Wayne to the Kevin Arnold or the Biff to the Marty. You get the idea.