For today’s craft beer review I thought I would try a Boulder Beer Company product called Hazed & Infused.  Boulder Beer Company is located in, where else but, Boulder, Colorado.

I don’t have a whole lot of experience when it comes to this brewery, so I’m eager to see how this beer tastes.  I’ve heard good things.   

Let’s get to the website, boulderbeer.com, and find out what it’s all about shall we?

Hazed & Infused is “hazed” in its natural unfiltered state, and “infused” – dry-hopped with Crystal and Centennial hops – during fermentation for a big, bold, unique taste.  Originally a one-keg brew for our pub, its popularity has soared and is now available in over 20 states.  

Let’s do this!!!

This brew has an ABV of 4.85% and comes in a 12 oz. bottle.
 
It poured a dark orange to light amber in color with plenty of bright orange and yellow highlights circling the bottom of the glass.  It had an off white head of very good size, very nice retention and it left some decent lacing behind.  The crown looked soft, mostly creamy, fluffy and just a bit rocky.  It definitely has some haze to it.  It looked pretty darn good in the glass I must say.

The aroma brought forth a decent burst of hops and citrus.  It wasn’t a real strong aroma, but enough to be recognizable.  The citrus was of a light grapefruit and a light orange.  Only a tad bit floral with a touch of caramel hiding underneath.  Faint hints of breadiness and slight tones of pine were noticed as the brew warmed a bit.  Everything seemed to be balanced just fine, although I didn’t find the hops to be as strong as I thought they might be.  Just a tad subdued and relaxed in my opinion. 

The taste started with some bready and biscuit malts followed by light savors of sweetness from both the citrus (grapefruit and orange) and the caramel.  A worthwhile piney distinction came in about midway through the drink to add a bit more complexity.  At the very end I even found what I thought to be characteristics of some green apples.  Hmm.  It might have just been me, who knows?  Throughout the drink I kept noticing a somewhat distracting “grainy” flavor that I didn’t find too appealing.  Again, like the aroma, the hops were a touch understated.

The mouthfeel was medium to thin, mostly smooth, crisp, thirst quenching and refreshing.  It was a smidge watery also.  The palate was left with a little bit of flavor, but not near what I was hoping for.

Well, this beer was super easy to drink and I think it would make for a great session brew while enjoying the Spring and Summer BBQ’s.  It wasn’t an outstanding brew, but it wasn’t horrible either.  It’s more of a no-nonsense PA and a very relaxing beer.  It has some character that could be contemplated, but it might best be enjoyed when you can just crack a bottle and chill.  For sure give it a try if you see it, but I don’t know that I would go out of my way to find it.

Have you guys had the Boulder Beer Co. Hazed & Infused?  What did you think of it?

Feel free to leave a comment if you wish.

Thanks….  Cheers!!!

Score:  3.4 out of 5
Grade:  B-