Juniper Black Ale

Brewer: Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Style: Cascadian dark ale, fruit beer

ABV: 8.2%
IBU: 61
Serving Type: 12 oz. bottle poured into an English pub glass

Pours black with some faint red highlighting. A finger of lumpy, light tank head sits on top and is in no hurry to go away. Aroma is herbal, piney, perhaps a touch of dark fruit. Could be it's just the juniper I'm smelling, but it's not a fruit I'm terribly familiar with.

That herbal, pine flavor is right up front, very crisp and refreshing. Roasted malt is right behind, balancing the aromatics very well. Medium bodied with a fairly dry finish. Surprisingly drinkable and quenching for the style.

This was part of the Sierra Nevada Beer Camp variety pack in 2011. And I am a big fan of this beer; it's a shame it's such a limited release.

My score: 5/5

Beer Advocate: B+

Rate Beer: 97/100

Pintley: 3.4/5