A big white fluffy head stands tall atop this hazy, light-orange beer. The foam dissipates rather quickly into a lingering creamy ring. White pepper and coriander combine with a light citric acid note that almost stings the nostrils. Some alcohol and low levels of wheat malt linger in the... Read More
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Rick Franckhauser
Beer Judge
Rick’s interest in beer styles and brewing began in 1975, as a part of an interest in the culinary arts but his education in beer styles began with an introduction to Michael Jackson’s “The World Guide To Beer”. In those days imported beers were hard to come by to say the least. As that began to change, his appreciation and interest in various beer styles grew stronger. Some styles remained hard to find, so in 1991, Rick began home brewing. To increase his knowledge of the brewing process he became a member of the Cincinnati Malt Infusers homebrew club in 1996, where he served as Program Director and helps to conduct an annual BJCP exam prep class. Rick became a BJCP judge in 2004 and has risen to the rank of National. But most importantly, he loves beer! After all these years, he remains fascinated with the varied aroma and flavor experiences a beer can provide.
My reviews
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
18 / 24
Flavor:
33 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
17 / 20
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
20 / 20
Lost the Plot by Arches Brewing was judged as BJCP category 17A, British Strong Ale. First, I must say that I am pleased that someone is still brewing British strong ales. While Fuller’s 1845 and Young’s Winter Warmer can be found, it is becoming increasingly difficult... Read More
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
20 / 24
Flavor:
34 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20
Aromas of chocolate, caramel and some toasty malt are followed by faint lemony citrus hops. A little roast and coffee in the background combine with strawberry esters as it warms up. This beer pours a hazy deep mahogany with burnished copper highlights and a light tan creamy foam cap. Chocolate... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
Citrus fruit aromas are combined with woody notes, apricots and hints of tropical fruits reminiscent of passion fruit. A pale golden beer with some dry hop haze and a creamy white foam stand. Pink grapefruit intermingled with the tropical fruits up front and center in the flavor. The woody... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
Starr Hill Amber Ale was judged as an Irish Red Ale, BJCP Style Category 15A. Light caramel notes with some floral and earthy hops as well as some toasty malt notes come through with a hint of toffee in the aroma. The fermentation character is clea, and the beer pours a copper color with bright... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
20 / 24
Flavor:
36 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
17 / 20
Samuel Adams New England IPA by The Boston Beer Co. is being judged as BJCP category 21B, Specialty IPA: New England IPA. Moderately high levels of orange and lemon citrus gives the impression that you are about to experience some acidic tartness, rather than sweet citrus. Low levels of... Read More