As far as I’m concerned, it’s still summer when the thermometer still tips 20 C, so let’s make the most of it while it lasts. (Sorry, Calgary.)
Find a sheltered, sun-soaked deck on which to sip this self-styled Belgian summer ale and it could just as easily be the roasty end of July.
This is a remarkably restrained beer for Parallel 49 considering that the blonde/golden ale style gives them free reign to clock up the ABV – something the brewery hasn’t really shied away from in their two years on the scene. (Yes, just two years. Doesn’t it feel like they’ve been around forever? It’s one of the few things that keeps me feeling young these days.)
But I’ll happily take restraint if it tastes this good. And that’s quite a compliment considering the smell of almost every beer containing Sorachi Ace hops immediately reminds me of men’s washrooms. Thankfully, here it’s teamed with the earthy, floral and fruity charms of Willamette and Styrian Goldings varietals.
READ MORE PARALLEL 49 BEER REVIEWS HERE
Sun of Hop pours a clear pale straw colour with a dense, bright white head that slowly fades to a thin rim.
Warm hay and grass are present on the nose, alongside light notes of preserved lemon and orange rind. Crisp biscuity malt is also evident, as well as a clean and fresh, light saline edge.
On tasting, the beer is clean and brisk with full mouthfeel and crisp carbonation. Gentle herbals play out up front before light citrus notes come through in the middle along with a hint of bubblegum. Slightly warmer biscuity malt notes appear in the finish, which is clean, dry and lightly salty.
Food pairing: I’m thinking fish. Let’s stick with the summer theme while we can and say any simply prepared fish off the grill, from halibut to sardines to sockeye. Wrap some scallops in prosciutto and I wouldn’t say no, either.
Beer Cat: Interested
650ml, $5, at government liquor stores
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