04-02-2022, 02:57 PM
(04-02-2022, 05:21 AM)Michigan Swamp Buck Wrote: A fellow at work suggested I try this brew, so I did. Here is my beer snob review . . .
New Belgium Brewing, Fort Collins, Colorado and Asheville, NC
VooDoo Ranger - Imperial IPA Pale Ale
A full, moderately lasting head (upon a quick pour) with ample lacing. Well carbonated with a clear amber color and no particulates. It has a strong piney aroma with a sweat grapefruit accent. The first taste is a strong hops flavor the same as the aroma, but not as strong tasting as the aroma would lead one to believe. It has a quick foamy mouth feel that dissipates quickly into a fruity finish and a well lived, mildly dry, peppery after taste. A rather full bodied pale ale with a nutty malt flavor in the background adding to the body.
The alcohol is not very noticeable , something I expected before the finish, but after I consumed my first 12 ounce bottle, I could feel the 9% ABV reported on the label. Overall, it's quite good regardless of the name "VooDoo Ranger" and cartoon label design. The glass bottle is actually nice having a raised band embossed with the brewery's name where the shoulder of the bottle meets the neck. It may become a collectible bottle someday with the cartoon label even adding to it's value.
Commercial Description: A rare blend of choice hops creates an explosion of fresh cut pine and citrus flavors for a complex, rich and delicious finish. 9% ABV.
Includes an "Enjoy by" date about one month from purchase.
Interesting you'd pick this particular brew. Personally, I like New Belgium a lot too, but they have made some waves here in Colorado recently. New Belgium Brewing was purchased by Kirin Holdings Inc., a Japanese brewing empire, in 2019. I've not tried the 'VooDoo Ranger' persuasion yet, but I do like New Belgium beer in general. Fat Tire is probably my go-to. The sale to Kirin kind of takes them out of the "Craft Beer" market segment though.
The whole craft beer thing in Colorado has a pretty interesting trajectory. Lots of really good local brews are available here. Some not so good ones too, and even some really bizarre ones here as well.