Had the chance to get to the opening weekend for Roundabout Brewing.
Yesterday was opening day for the newest Pittsburgh, PA brewer and apparently there was a line 1.5hrs long. I had no chance to make it to the brewery for the event, and almost didn't today either.
I got to the brewery in Lawrenceville, about 4 mins before "closing time" and without hesitation, they were eager to aid me in trying, selecting and understanding their beer.
I had a small sample of the Hy-PA, an American IPA with high IBU's, strong AbV and the increasingly popular Motueka hops from New Zealand.
I also sampled their "California Common" (The Commoner) that used a yeast strand from Anchor Steam.
I enjoyed the commoner and the Hy-PA was right what I was looking for, but I ultimately purchased the Hy-PA and the Ginga Wheat in their logo'd growlers. Ginga is pronounced (ghing-GAH) by the way.
After the dash to the brewery, I returned to a nearby alley way to share PGH's newest craft brew offering with my Chef's (Jeremy and Nicole). I snuck into the office, marked a plastic cup and waited patiently for their arrival.
We were all in agreement that the quality is there, the craftsmanship is there and a great future appears certain.
Now I'm sitting on my porch attempting to polish of this growler of Hy-PA, and despite how warm I have let it get, I still feel the tasting notes are as follows:
Bright, citrusy, kaffir dominates the nose from the Montueka hops, backed by a floral note from the Centennial hops. Transfer all aromas to the tongue with a touch of solid bitterness. Full mouthfeel, with a grapefruit sense that coats. I wish the carbonation was greater as it falls a hair flat. Well rounded and holds great potential to be an outstanding IPA/Pale Ale.
I'm glad I made it. I will enjoy both growlers this weekend. Alone.
As always, drink good America.
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