Hopback Amber Ale -- Troegs Brewery (Harrisburg, PA)
The package says the name comes from the "hopback kettle" used at the end of the brewing process. I think it comes from the reaction from one's first taste -- hopping back at the bitter shock crushing the tongue.
Characteristics: Warm amber color, hoppy from start to finish, medium body, slightly fizzy, slightly smoky and caramel flavors buried deep in the hops.
Gripes: Did I mention the hops yet?
Bottom Line: I like American pale ales from time to time, but Sierra Nevada on steroids is a bit much. Disguising the beer with the "amber" descriptor instead of "IPA" doesn't help -- any points earned for not claiming "India" are immediately conceded by omitting "pale."
Rating: 4.75 / 10
Technorati: Troegs, Pale Ale, IPA, Harrisburg, Pennsylvania
Categories:
Ale
This review is unjust. Hopback is a great beer with a robust taste and smooth finish. It's all in the taste buds of the beholder!
Thanks for writing. I agree that it's all in the reviewer's taste buds... and as I've demonstrated over the course of many reviews (or choices not to review certain beers), I'm just not into the mega-hop trend. As with any set of reviews and opinions, your mileage may vary.