Samuel Adams – 2015 Escape Route, Crystal Pale & Double Bock Sampling

Nothing makes for a better break from winter than a sampling of some classic Samuel Adams spring releases….so a big thank you to Samuel Adams for sending me some early samples.

We started the sampling with Escape Route and this Kolsch-style brew was the perfect start to our Spring release journey.  Escape Route pours hazy and unfiltered and the nose is citrusy & herbal.  The early taste for me was honey, but it was quickly followed by by citrus and floral flavors with a crisp and clean finish.  This beer comes in at 5% ABV so you’ll be able to enjoy more than one.

Next up we switched to Crystal Pale Ale and I really thought this one poured a gorgeous amber color with a prominent peachy and grassy aroma.  Crystal Pale Ale  uses American Crystal hops grown in Corvallis, OR as well as Fuggles and East Kent Goldings hops.  The result is a clean citrusy brew with a really pleasant malt balance.  We paired Crystal Pale Ale with some Gruyere cheese and it was heavenly.  The beer cut through the soft & creamy cheese and the result was something you have to try.

We finished our sampling with Samuel Adams classic Double Bock.  With a Mahogany color and a pleasant malty sweet aroma, you’ll have trouble pausing to enjoy the view.  Double Bock has flavors of toffee, fruit and a slight graham cracker finish…and of course it has a warmth in he mouthfeel, likely due to it’s surprising 9.5% ABV.  This 2014 GABF gold winning beer is perfect to share with friends and enjoy as we await an early spring.

Thank you to everyone at Samuel Adams for helping usher along the dregs of winter, and get us looking forward to spring.  Be sure to check out all three of these beers and let us know what you think.