I’m always excited about trying a beer from my home state and I’ve heard some positive things about this particular beer, so I’m hoping for the best.
The website, westsixth.com, did not have a commercial description regarding this beer, but they did have a nice little description about the development of the brewery itself.
West Sixth Brewing founders Ben, Brady, Joe, and Robin all came to the same conclusion at about the same time – Lexington, KY needs more high quality local craft beer. Since we came from very different backgrounds with diverse sets of experiences and talents, we joined forces to create beer that can be enjoyed not only by craft beer experts, but also by those who just want something tasty to drink after going for a bike ride.
Though we all got to this point in our lives in different ways, we strongly agree on West Sixth’s goals. We will provide a taproom and beer garden where the beer list is never the same but that is always local. We will be a brewery that measures its success not only by making great craft beer but also by how it helps our community. We will always strive to protect our environment even if it costs us more to do so. And last, but not least, we all share a desire to create the best beer possible and to be an integral part of building a great beer culture for our great town.
Nice. Let’s drink.
This beer came in a 12 oz. can and it had an ABV of around 7.0%.
It poured a somewhat hazy, amber/orange color with some burnt yellow highlights at the bottom of the glass. The crown was sized well, slightly off white, smooth, creamy and soft. The retention time was commendable and the lacing left behind was admirable.
The nose fell right in line with what a solid IPA should smell like. Hints of grapefruit and orange citrus as well as a solid dose of pine and floral notes. It also had a subtle sweetness that I liked. Once it settled a sturdy bouquet of a light bready and biscuity malt helped balance things a bit. Overall, I thought this beer had a very nice fragrance from start to finish.
The taste was similar to the aroma, however just a tad bit more restrained. It wasn’t quite a bright or vibrant yet, it still provided noteworthy tones of fresh and juicy grapefruit and orange citrus. It released more pine and even a bit of resin. It had an excellent bitterness and hop profile. The bread and biscuit backbone held things together nicely for the entirety of the drink. Quite flavorful and nice.
The mouthfeel was medium bodied. Smooth, crisp, dry and refreshing. The carbonation was of medium strength and an exceptional amount of flavor was left behind after each sip.
Well, I thought this beer was pretty dang good. It’s nothing overly complicated nor does it really try to be anything it’s not. However, it’s a very well made brew that’s true to the style. One that I wouldn’t mind having in my fridge at all times. It has a great drinkability and it has enough hop “kick” to satisfy most any hophead. I’m really excited about the West Sixth Brewing Company because it’s a Kentucky brewery that we can really promote and be proud of. Although, at the present time, it’s my understanding that the West Sixth IPA is the only beer being shipped for consumption. One must visit the brewery to sample some of their other products. Oh well, until they package a few more things I’ll just continue to enjoy this nice beverage.
Thanks for reading and commenting everyone. I really appreciate it.
Until next time. Cheers.
Score: 4.0 out of 5
Grade: B+
Beer Apprentice - Craft Beer News, Reviews, Interviews and Info. 