Fresh As Helles is a German-style Munich Helles Lager brewed by the Boston Beer Company, and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the lager was served in a pilsener glass from a bottle.
Appearance
The Helles pours a crystal clear deep golden hue and is topped by a thick cap of puffy, white foam that shows fair retention. A smattering of sticky lace dots the sides of the glass following the reduction. A mottled patchwork of soapy bubbles tops the lager.
Aroma
The aroma is sweet with oranges and malty grain. It’s lightly backed by floral hops. As the beer warms, the hoppiness dissipates and sweet honey emerges.
Flavor
The palate begins with a taste of biscuit and sweetens with a taste of honeydew, melon, and cantaloupe. The finish adds a mild bite of orange citrus along with a dash of floral and spicy hops. Sweet apple and honey round out the finish.
Mouthfeel
Its feel is smooth and coating with a medium body and moderate carbonation. Finishes somewhat dryly and spicy hops lend a slight warmth.
Overall
The head retention could be better but otherwise, this Helles look hella good in the glass. The aroma and palate lean malty-sweet as expected and its feel is also right in line with expectations. Fresh As Helles is a fine representation of the style.