I was preparing for that reliable sign of spring arrival. Not the Cherry blossom festival. Not the tune-up on the lawn mower. No, this is the seasonal Toronto Maple Leaf disintegration in the Stanley Cup playoffs. There is always a glimmer of hope and I wanted a good beer to drink during the game. Well, this was one of my smarter moves as the hockey team lived up to their reputation, falling apart at the seams, while my beer delightfully exceeded expectations.
The folks at Midtown seem like straight shooters, something a Cranky Old Man has come to appreciate. Their brewery has a huge patio with picnic tables. None of this fancy-dancy lawn furniture for them. You come here for the beer, not to sit in a chaise lounge and sip a fruity spritz. Same thing on the label of the beer – this one is labelled India Pale Ale and their other offerings are similarly labelled, no creative juices wasted on a witty name here. Check out the Midtown Brewing web site, at the bottom it states “NO RESERVATIONS OR SWEET POTATO FRIES” – this is a no nonsense outfit.
I can tell you they didn’t skimp anything on the beer. This beer is fantastic, with a fine bronze colour and a delicious caramel flavour. What a finish! The hoppiness at the end is both unexpected and incredibly satisfying. The hops are all locally grown and that may be what gives this beer it’s really unique and awesome taste. It has a high 50 IBU which comes through at the end. It is surprising to find a beer with this much flavour and bitterness at the low end of the alcohol range.
I’m giving this beer my highest score ever. It was both delicious and deserving and also provided great consolation to an otherwise disastrous hockey playoff match.
Well done Midtown – I’ll be back*.
Editor’s Comment: A socks knocked off super suds score! Although JT is a big beer fan, and a fan of big beers, he’s not an easy 19. Midtown’s County Kolsch and their Dry Irish Stout both achieved Super Suds status as well.
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