Dad (Hoppy Holiday Ale) Review

Hi Thirsty, I’m Dad.

This Hoppy Red Ale (6% | 48 IBU) sports a robust malt bill as ample and snug as a well worn flannel. Throwing on a pair of oversized sneakers that break all known fashion laws, Dad mows acres of dank, piney hops, uphill both ways in the snow. Keep it up—I’ll turn this can around.

Malts: Pale, Crystal, Munich, Carafa
Hops: Chinook, El Dorado

Dad is a Hoppy Holiday Ale. What can we expect from that style?

This is a very loosely defined style, sometimes referred to as a “winter warmer.” Traditionally, Holiday Ales are slightly stronger and maltier than the usual brews, but are very open to interpretation. We took a traditional winter warmer and loaded it with aromatic hops to add our own twist.

What are the notable characteristics of this beer?

Hops and malt both really shine in this brew. American hops blast your palate with flavors of pine, resin, and hints of citrus. Specialty malts impart a deep red color, along with sweet notes of caramel in the finish that counter the hops.

What makes you want to drink this beer?

This beer pairs perfectly with cold weather, hearty foods, and warm fires. The full body and solid malt backbone make this an ideal drink to warm you up.

What makes this beer unique?

The addition of American hops really makes Dad special.

What are some other festive, cold-weather beers that you dig?

Thirsty Dog 12 Dogs of Christmas Ale, Revolution Fistmas, Bell’s Christmas Ale, and MadTree Thundersnow are all interesting and delicious takes on a winter beer.

Tasting Notes

Appearance: Deep red with excellent clarity.
Aroma: Piney American hops dominate the aroma.
Taste: Hoppy notes of pine and citrus lead to sweet hints of caramel and malt.
Mouthfeel: Full-bodied, but not heavy.
Overall: The combination of American hops and specialty malts make this complex red ale the perfect beer for the holiday season.

What foods would pair well with Dad?

Being both hoppy and sweet, this versatile ale pairs well with all the traditional holiday spices, making it a great beer to pair with a festive meal.

Ideal glassware for Dad?

A nonic pint glass, the pint glass traditionally used in England, works well for this brew.