Hi folks.  For today’s craft beer review I’m going to be trying the Rye Hatter brewed by the New Holland Brewing Company located in Holland, Michigan.

We have been somewhat limited on the New Holland beers around my area in the past, but lately I’ve been seeing more and more on the shelves, so I figured I’d give a few more a try.

From the website, newhollandbrew.com, I found this bit of info regarding the Rye Hatter.

Rye lends spiciness to the caramel-malt base, while creating a creamy texture. Dry-hopping contributes a fresh citrus finish.

Ok.  Let’s pour.

This beverage came in a 22 oz. bottle with an ABV of 6.12%.

It discharged a nice caramel amber to deep orange color.  The cap was off white, smooth, creamy and soft.  It was sized well and both the lacing and retention time were worthwhile.

The aroma released tones of caramel malt, spicy rye bread and baked biscuits.  Some resiny hops and a bit of pine came through as well.  The citrus was light and airy with tickles of grapefruit and orange.  Everything seemed to be rather harmonious with nothing distracting or out of place.

Within the taste the fruitiness came forth a touch more.  Especially the grapefruit.  The biscuit and rye bread savors were there of course, but I also started to pick up on some light grassy and grainy tones.  Some bits of pine protruded toward the end allowing the bitterness to become a player.  Tasty.

The mouthfeel was medium to medium/thin.  Mostly dry, smooth and a touch crisp.  The carbonation was medium strength and a solid dose of flavor was left behind between sips.

This was a sturdy, sturdy beer.  I really enjoyed it and hope that I have the opportunity to partake in it again sometime real soon.  This brew had plenty of character and I believe that it could be enjoyed most anytime of the year for sure.  Especially the Summer and Fall season.  The drinkability was great and I put the entire bottle down with relative ease.  Without a doubt, I would recommend that you guys give the New Holland Rye Hatter a try if you get the opportunity.  It might not be the greatest beer that you’ve ever tried, yet I guarantee that it would be far from the worst.

Thanks for reading and commenting everyone.  I really appreciate it.

Until next time.  Cheers.

Score:  4.0 out of 5

Grade:  B+