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5% ABV 40 IBUs |
Our friends have known us to call Deschutes "God's gift to breweries." Seriously, if we lived in Portland or Bend, we would be at their brewpubs at least twice a week. We can both remember the first time we tried their beer - it proved that love at first sight (or taste) was something that existed. Of their many styles, Mirror Pond Pale Ale is one of our favorites, and we're not the only ones - it won Gold this year at GABF for a reason.
From first pour, this beer just looks like it's going to be delicious - it shows off a burnt orange, almost copper color, topped with a pale yellow head. The sweet caramel aroma welcomes you - its floral earthy notes subtly unveil themselves at the end, transcending into citrus notes as the beer warms. Upon the first sip, the rich, sweet taste quickly transforms into bitter, hoppy goodness, while finishing earthy and smooth. It feels velvety on the tongue - it has a malty bitterness about it that makes us unsure how categorize it, almost like it is a hybrid between American and English pale ales. It doesn't have that powerful citrus characteristic that is common with American styles, but it's not as dry and bitter as traditional English pales. This creates a complex and enigmatic ale, leaving your mouth wanting more. This is truly a beer that we would feel comfortable recommending to anyone, regardless of their taste in beer.
We were lucky enough to be in Portland while Fresh Hop Mirror Pond was on tap. If you happen to have the opportunity to try it, seize the moment - it changes the beer in amazing ways!
For more about Deschutes Brewery, visit http://www.deschutesbrewery.com/brewery/default.aspx
