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.