Sam Adams Revolutionary Rye Ale

The Dirt
A recently added beer to the Sam Adams lineup, most recently in the spring variety pack. Unlike some of the other rye beers I've had, rye is the focus of this beer (versus being a pale ale or something). This is clear while drinking, as the spice and grab of the rye lingers throughout the beer. That combined with the traditional ale nature of this beer brings a well balanced brew with a sweet finish. You also get a hint of dry hops in the middle, giving it a bit more character. A very tasty medium bodied brew that's refreshing.

Worth it?
I bought this as part of the spring variety pack, which is always worth it given the other beers that tag along. I've bought this on draft too, and would definitely buy again. A good beer to relax with and to identify the rye difference.

The Final Word

 

Terrapin Rye Pale Ale

The Dirt
Rye beers are making a big comeback (or moment in the sun), and with good cause. Rye adds a little spice versus a lot of malty taste. And of course, pale ales are hoppy, so it was interesting to see how these two would play with each other.

This beer got it all right, with the perfect balance of hops and rye. Smooth at first, but the hop and rye flavors fade in quickly. Citrus notes from the hops and the spice of the rye linger on the backside, with a hint of sweet at the end. Just plain tasty and very drinkable. Hop heads (which I am), you may want more hops, but I think that would hide the rye. Although letting a pale ale warm up isn't something I'd recommend, I will say that the rye becomes more present later in the glass, as the beer warms up just a tad. The only way this could get better is if it was made into a double pale or something.

Worth it?
A trick question this time around. A very generous friend gave me of few of these, as they're not available here in Texas. But if you see it somewhere (probably more in the Southeast), I recommend getting one, especially if you like pale ales and want to be introduced to rye.

The Final Word