It’s time again to run through some beer themed to an upcoming holiday. Too close to Mardi Gras to get around to that, but I should be able to get a nice round of Irish styles in time for St. Patrick’s Day. I’ve got some to start with, sent to me by Louis Glunz Beer distributors, and will fill in some more as time allows.
First up, on the lighter side of the Irish beer spectrum, is Maggie’s Irish Ale, from Michigan’s Saugatuck Brewing Co. This is described as a”Traditional Irish style Red Ale brewed with locally harvested Michigan honey.”
Irish Reds are kind of a hybrid style in that they’re either brewed as ales or lagers. They’re similar to Scottish ales, but with lighter, toasty malts caramel, English or Irish hops. This beer lists a malt bill of Pale malt, Carapils, Chocolate roast, and flaked oats. The Cluster hops used are actually a long-standing American variety.
The beer pours reddish-brown, under a thin and very brief head. The smell does have a roast to it, and even a bit of the peat that I often get from a Scottish ale.
I get a taste that’s also slightly earthy, but also toasty and somehow crisp. The honey does add an edge of sweetness and makes this feel heartier than its 5.4% abv might suggest. It also leave a bit of stickiness on the lips.
Normally a good beer to start your party or meal with, but perhaps its extra body would also make it work for meats and desserts.
