Beer to Drink Music to ’17

Beer to Drink Music to ’17, an American Blonde Ale by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery

Fast Facts
Beer
Beer to Drink Music to ’17
Style
American Blonde Ale
Brewery
Dogfish Head Craft Brewery
ABV
6.8%
IBUs
30
Calories
204 (Estimated)
Commercial Description: Music has been a part of Dogfish Head since before Dogfish Head. So it’s a natural fit for a brewery that makes ‘Analog Beer for the Digital Age’ to be the Official Beer of Record Store Day, a celebration of the unique culture of record stores and the special role they play in their communities. Of course, as the Official Beer of Record Store Day, we had to create a special brew for the occasion! Now for the second year, that’s just what we’ve done with Beer To Drink Music To. In volume two of this celebratory ale, this Tropical Blonde is brewed with hibiscus flowers and kiwi juice. It’s the perfect marriage of beer and music and best when paired with some of your favorite tunes. Clocking in at 6.8% ABV, Beer To Drink Music To ’17 is a pinkish-red brew with forward notes of tropical fruits with hints of berries and floral.
Rating

Beer to Drink Music to ’17 is an American Blonde Ale brewed by Dogfish Head Craft Brewery, and for the purposes of this craft beer review, was served in a pilsener glass from a bottle.

Appearance

The blonde ale pours much darker than what’s expected for the style. Its color is an auburn hue and topped by an inch-thick head of soapy, white foam that persists briefly. A smattering of residue clings to the glass.

Aroma

The aroma is quite pleasant; imparting a scent of sweet tropical fruit blended with fragrant hibiscus.

Flavor

The palate offers a base of bready malt before ramping towards puckering flavors of passion fruit, kiwi, and lemon. The use of floral hops is mild but complementary. Finishes dryly.

At 6.8%, the ABV is particularly high for the style. Although no alcohol finds its way into the taste or aroma.

Mouthfeel

Mouthfeel is relatively smooth with a medium body and medium-light carbonation.

Overall

The Beer to Drink Music to ’17 is surprisingly tart but that isn’t necessarily a bad thing. However, it could possibly be off-putting for some. That being said, it’s certainly a delightful late-afternoon refresher.