You are viewing a single comment's thread from:
RE: 7 day beer challenge day #5
Redhook ESB was the first that I remember having, and it's much more in line with how the style is supposed to taste than Big Slick was. I think they have pretty wide distribution, so assuming you live where your username sounds like you live, I imagine you can find it there.
Strangely enough, it was one of the first "craft" beers that I had way back in college. To some degree I credit Redhook ESB as my gateway beer.
ESB, or Extra Special Bitter is a classic English style. It is bitter, hence the name, but not that bitter by today's standards. Usually between 30-40 IBU, it is actually quite balanced with malt flavor, and makes for a nice well-rounded ale, no fancy bells and whistles but just a straight up hoppy ale. They are actually pretty refreshing once in awhile when taking a break to the super high IBU (70-100 IBU) beers and highly dry-hopped pale ales.
Just googled "Redhook ESB" and I have totally seen this around. Will have to stop at Binny's (large liquor store) and see if they have it.
I've been to Binny's! I was in Chicago for the php[tek] conference and had to sneak away to fill up my suitcase with beer that's not available in Texas for me to bring back. Brought back a load of 3 Floyds and Goose Island special releases. I found their staff pretty helpful.
Love me some 3 Floyds.
They don't distribute to Texas, so I have to get beer nerds to bring it to me or travel in order to try it.