Sunday, May 17, 2009

Sam Adam's Imperial White

This was one of the beers I got cheap in the mixed sixpack from HEB and I'm glad I hadn't spent $9.50 for a 4-pack of it. The colour was darker then I would have expected for the style, but the aroma was citrusy and spicy. However, the flavour was overwhelmingly sweet and malty with an almost oily mouthfeel. The higher alcohol was noticeable in the finish which also had an odd taste that made me think of a Cesar (a Canadian cocktail made with Vodka and Mott's Clamato juice), which is not good since I don't particularly like Cesars. Not at all what I was expecting when I took my first drink. I've never been so disappointed by a Sam Adams beer. Oh well, it wouldn't have been anything purchased often anyway.

3 comments:

Anonymous said...

Hmmm...that's a bit disappointing. Sam Adams is one of my favorite companies and I've been dying to try this brew. I just haven't been eager to spend $10 on a four pack. I'll still have to try it for myself, but I hate to hear that it didn't meet your expectations.

Brad said...

The only "double white" I can remember having is from Southampton. It tasted fine but was too robust to be a Wit. I think by definition, Imperial Wit cannot have the qualities (lightness, delicateness) that make a Wit a Wit.

What would you call an Imperial Light Lager?

Steve said...

I agree Brad, not every style of beer can or should be made "Imperial", but that doesn't stop breweries from doing it. This is definitely one of those styles.