Review: Bifrost Winter Ale from Elysian
Editor’s Note: Today is day six in our Twelve Days of Christmas series on Pints and Steins – where we’ll be letting you know about a winter beer every day between now and Christmas Eve.
On the sixth day of Christmas, my true love gave to me, Bifrost from Elysian Brewing!
Elysian Brewing is based in Seattle and turns out really fantastic brews. The one small brewery was bought by big beer earlier in 2015, but the innovation hasn’t stopped from Elysian.
Today we take a look at their annual winter ale – BiFrost. Tale is 8.3% ABV and is brewed with Amarillo, Centennial and Styrian Goldings hops.
Elysian isn’t shy about the hop profile in this beer – it’s a strong, hoppy winter ale.
How does it taste?
I poured Bifrost from the 22 oz bomber you see here and it has a toasted bread scent – my wife reported that she immediately smelled grapefruit. I’d say it was similar to orange spice tea. Don’t let that fool you though – this is NOT an orangey tasting beer.
The beer pours a hazy orange with a big off-white head.
At first sip, you pick up on the sweet hoppiness that’s notable but not overwhelming. Then, the citrus and sweet flavors produce a lovely feel in your mouth. This is a well formulated, smooth beer that both my wife and I enjoyed.
Should I buy it?
As long as you’re ok with mild bitterness in a beer, you’ll love this holiday warmer from Elysian. I bought it at Safeway and I’ve seen it at most stores that sell bomber bottles.