We’ve got a heat wave here in the fine state of New Jersey. This weekend it’s suppose to be close to 80. Alright maybe not a heat wave but still I think it’s about time to crack a few of Stoudts Brewing Co.’s Karnival Kolsh’s. Happy times kids. Now I’ll be 100% honest with you all, because that’s the kind of guy I am. Before drinking this beer I’d had a total of 0 Kolsh’s. Or at least that I remember. I’m sure at some tour or tasting I’ve tried one but never actually picked up a six pack. But about a month ago on a bus trip put on by The Pony I had a chance to try Stoudt’s Kolsh and I was happy, mighty happy. The Pony, bringing people together. Isn’t that sweet?

The aroma is somewhat grassy with some hops poking in. Sounds strange I know but it’s pretty good. Like a fresh cut field with booze in it. Sounds nice doesn’t it? The taste reminds me a lot of sour dough bread. I love sour dough bread. Just a note in case you’re looking to get me a gift of the food kind. A little bit of the hops coming in but not much. Very light and refreshing so you can easily down a 6 of these and not blink an eye. I think you might have a problem. I’ve read some other reviews of this beer and a lot of people say it’s a bit off for a Kolsch but I don’t give a crap. I like it just good so whoever doesn’t is a jackass and is wrong about everything in the world. There I said it.

Stoudts Brewing Co. - Karnival Kolsch

I don’t know what the people at Lakefront Brewery have against bridges and honestly I don’t really care. They’ve made a mighty tasty brew here so if they want to burn them all down I’m not going to stop them. I’ve just started to see their beers pop up in my fine area of New Jersey and I’m as giddy as a school girl about it. Their IPA was so good I drank it all before I had time to write a post or take a picture of it. Don’t you just hate me? I deserve it I know.

Their Bridge Burner ale is part of their special reserve series, so you know it’s going to be classy. It’s a big guy so look out, it’ll take you to thunder dome, whatever that means. Lots of caramel and malt in the aroma and a nice big head tops off this rather dark tadger. I don’t think that’s a word either so don’t worry. The taste is complex, a lot going on here. Sweet with lots of malt but also a big hop presence. Hard to explain but it’s all around good. You would never be able to tell that there’s a 8% ABV floating around in those delicious waters either. This could be bad.

Give this one a go if you can track it down. If not honestly I’m starting to think any of Lakefront’s beers are going to do you right so I’m looking forward to seeing more of their work.

Lakefront Brewery - Bridge Burner