Beer Review: Sierra Nevada Celebration Ale

Review of the Celebration Ale from Sierra Nevada Brewing Company.
Score: 85

Totally fresh 2011 vintage bottle served slightly chilled in a Sam's Adams glass.

Appearance: 4 inches of bubbly, frothy head on pour. Very carbonated carmel-amber color. The see-thru of this beer falls somewhere between transparent and translucent. Carbonation fuels the foamy head for several minutes, leaving thin layer once the pour settles in. 4/5

Smell: A Lemony-soap bitter aroma dominates the nose. There is also a malty citrus smell at the front. 4/5

Taste: This beer is unlike most IPAs I have drank. The taste has a malty-caramel backbone, and the lemon-citrusy bitterness is very balanced. The finish is malty and slightly lemony, but not bitter at all. 3.5/5

Mouthfeel: Sticky medium-body beer with lots of refreshing carbonation. 3.5/5

Overall: The taste was unexpectedly malty, which is unique for the IPA's that I usually drink (hop bombs). The malty-balance is not very apparent by the nose, but a pleasant surprise. This is an IPA that the more casual drinker can enjoy.

Recommendation: An interestingly malty, rather than hoppy, IPA that I would recommend for people who are hops/bitter averse with their beer. 6.80% ABV is hidden in the maltiness.

Pairings: Teriyaki marinaded steak or duck. Definitely would work well with a fattier, slightly smokier dark meat.

Cost: $8.99 for a six pack.