Beer of the Week

This BOTW, is our first from California, courtesy of Lagunitas Brewing in Petaluma. Perhaps best known for their hops-to-the-face IPA, this NorCal brewery also makes an Imperial Stout, a Pilsner, and a bunch of seasonals including "Brown Shugga."

Brown Shugga is called a "fortuitous mistake" by the brewery that resulted in a copper colored strong ale. The Shugga has a very sweet carmelly, molases front (perhaps the reason for the name) and a piney hops finish. The head is minimal, but remains throughout. At 9.9% ABV, you'd think that the Shugga would have an alcohol taste, but it really doesn't; the sweet malts and hoppy finish are too much to cut through. Considering the sweetness and alcohol content, this is a beer that should be sipped, but for some unexplainable reason, it seems to force chugs.

The Shugga is a little too sweet and strong to drink every day, but it is a perfect end of fall beer, and a great one to share with some friends. Congratulations to Lagunitas for being our first California Beer of the Week.

Links of Interest:
Lagunitas Brewing Co.