OddSide Ales Simcoe Sensation

Odd Side Ales opened in 2010 in an old piano factory in Grand Haven, Michigan.

Simcoe Sensation pours hazy gold, with one fingers worth of white head. Big aroma on this brew - floral and grapefruit notes, with a slight detection of lemon. Big Simcoe hop flavor - notes of grapefruit and pine dominate the pallet. It’s a little sharp initially, but my taste buds adjusted quickly. The pine notes develop a spiciness that is similar to white pepper. Medium body with nice carbonation. As the ale warmed a bit, mango notes joined the flavor party. This IPA has a tasty bitter finish that lingers before giving way to a dry ending. 

(4.5% ABV)

Notes

I liked this brew. It has a lot of changing flavors. As far as I’m aware, this was my first introduction to Simcoe hops. They certainly make their presence known. They’re big, sharp, and spicy. My first impression of this ale wasn’t too favorable. It seemed too hoppy and one dimensional, but this brew rose to the challenge of gaining my admiration. It didn’t take too long for this ale to shape up and balance out. In between sips it suddenly became round and complex, and the slow developing mango notes created an enjoyable compliment to the bitter finish. In the end, my taste buds pulled a 180 and jumped on the Simcoe Sensation band wagon and rode off into the craft beer sunset.

Cheers!!!