Rating System
(from best to worst)
Excellent, Outstanding, Very Good, Good, Above Average, Average, Below Average, Poor. Undrinkable
"+" or "-" indicate half way to next level
From Bottles to Growlers- beer reviews by SANDY FELD, certified taster
DuClaw Hellraiser

This is an 7.5% American IPA made in Maryland.  Smells are
somewhat muted with hints of stone fruit and floral citrus.  
Somewhat light mouthfeel. Flavor features a touch of toffee and  
caramel that fade to a solid citrus hop presence.  Mango,
pineapple and blood orange  backed by a noticeable malt
presence appear as the finish approaches.  

Overall rating:- Above Average
Spitfire Kentish Ale

This is an English Pale that makes for a superior session ale at
4.5% ABV.   You are greeted by smells of lightly toasted malt,  
toffee and grain. The taste begins with gentle malt and bread
notes mixed with light caramel.  Hops appear at mid-taste
bringing a nice overall crispness to the beer. A solid, dry, and
easy to drink English Pale Ale that is not overly complex but
a fine example of the style.

Overall Rating - very good
Having sampled nearly 4,000 different beers in my
capacity as a fully certified taster I can promise
honest, thoughtful, and careful evaluations.  However,
remember that these reviews are totally subjective.  
Consider this column an informative resource only.  
The bottom line is to trust your own judgment and
keep drinking!  

Sandy
Beers Reviewed
Great Lakes Irish Red

"Conway's" Irish Red (6.5% ABV) from Great
Lakes is just what you'd expect from the
style despite the higher than usual ABV. The
smell is minimal with faint hints of  roasted
malty nuttiness.   Taste features flavors of
toasted graham crackers, sweet caramel
malt, mild spice, honey, and bread.  Overall
a smooth, malt forward, balanced beer.
Still, nothing special in any way. Yawn.


Overall Rating: Average
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