Draught pint at the brewpub on 9/23/06.
Minimally-hazed amber/gold-leaf colored body has some strong polished bronze tints and a large, well-retained, white/off-white head that laces well as it proceeds down the glass.
Soft fruits in the nose are joined by leafy, lightly juicy hops, that add dryness near the end, being quite crisp and well-pronounced as the aroma progresses. Well-suited to balancing the medium-sweet, buttercream-like maltiness, and in the end, it’s very well-balanced, a strong trait in most Sixpoint beers. A very crisp, grainy, straw-like dryness is noted as well, further distancing the aroma from the sweetness (though it never comes off as under-malted in the least). Unpasteurized, as always, and just so attractively fresh and fragrant.
A slight hint of toffee begins the malt aspect, as I take a sip. Slowly spreading in to a slightly more accessible doughiness and finally finishing with some light pale sugars, it is, at all times, terribly well extracted and very comforting on the palate. The great attenuation level provides just the right amount of texture, and the low/appropriate carbonation keeps it flavorful without any noxious gassiness. Green, leafy, moderately bitter hops show off grass, herbs and light floral aspects, with only mild citrus traits. Some caramel and toffee reprise near the end of the glass, giving it a bit more heft, but it certainly remains another fantastically drinkable session-like beer. Alcohol never apparent, fruity yeast is moderate and provides light nuances without being overbearing.