I was recently at my beer consultant meeting and was lucky to sample some tasty brews. Southern Tier was one of the guest breweries and delivered a nice presentation of their lineup. At the end offered they complimentary bombers of their new Plum Noir American Porter and Compass American Pale Ale with rose hips and citrusy hops. I have been trying to broaden my palate even more by actually tasting these unique ingredients used in some beers.

Gruits and other ancient beers use all kinds of herbs and spices. If you are unsure of what something should taste or smell like, go right to the source and taste the fare so you can discern it in future brews. I took a rose hip, which is rich in vitamin C when fresh, and smelled and tasted it and was able to recognize it in the Compass. It actually has a slightly bittersweet taste.

Appearance

It pours a rich gold color with a bright white, foamy head. The label describes it as a sparkling ale but I do not see any additional carbonation or Champagne-like qualities.

Smell 

Bright grapefruit hop notes, some pine, floral and earthy.

Taste

I am able to distinguish the hop-like bitterness of the rose hips, which complements the grapefruit in the hops. The malt balances out nicely.

This was a good pale ale I would recommend to the Sierra Nevada and Sam Adams drinkers out there who don’t want the American IPA hop bombs. Look for the full range of styles that Southern Tier has to offer at my store and an ABC near you.

Adam Shugan, ABC Fine Wine & Spirits Beer Consultant - Gainesville

Follow him on Twitter @abcbeeradams