Style: Helles Lager
Brewery: Darwin Brewing Co., Bradenton FL
Today just so happens to be the First Day of Summer (officially speaking), so there's no better time to take a look at a beer that will make a great "summer beer." You know the kind: the ones you enjoy on the patio, at the beach or pool, with a BBQ, or, quite simply, anytime you're looking for a lighter, refreshing beer.
The Big Deal Lager is currently one of three beers from Darwin Brewing that are available at retail exclusively at Lucky's Market stores in Florida under the "Big Deal" moniker. The Darwin-Lucky's partnership (a "Big Deal") was announced in late 2016, with the first beer in the series being the Chocolate Cherry Big Deal Imperial Stout (a review of the beer from November 14, 2016 appears on this site's associated Instagram page). The third beer in the series is the Big Deal Double IPA. Both the Big Deal Lager and the Big Deal Double IPA are June 2017 releases.
Beer Characteristics:
The Big Deal Lager is gold in color. As expected, there are virtually no hoppy aromas, but there is a malt sweetness even on the nose. The beer has a bready, malty and slightly sweet flavor, with a touch of hop notes, in the nature of Pilsner-like Noble hops. The taste is fresh, crisp and clean, with no lingering aftertaste.
Overall, the beer is light, easy-drinking and refreshing. It's definitely repeatable and pleasant. Although the label indicates "mild tropical notes," this writer experienced mostly a bready characteristic, with a light malt sweetness, and a very subtle taste of stonefruit or citrus zest.
The beer is another of what I like to call "go-to" beers: the ones that you reach for when your tastebuds need a break from aggressive bitterness and strong flavors.
It's a "gateway" beer into craft for those who drink the "macro" beers, and it offers a fuller taste experience.
It's a "gateway" beer into craft for those who drink the "macro" beers, and it offers a fuller taste experience.
The label on the can suggests that the beer pairs well with "seafood, tangy barbecue, hearty burgers, charred bratwurst, glazed chicken, and cajun spiced dishes." That probably covers it, because it's a beer that can accompany any type of food. In fact, this writer generally reaches for a beer such as this while cooking outdoors.
This beer will not only work with just about any food, but it's also a natural for outdoor activities or simply relaxing. I think it may be a regular in my fridge.
Thanks to Darwin Brewing for the beermail!
And, I'm looking forward to the Double IPA .... (but that's another story).....
Cheers! 🍻
And, Happy Summer!🌞
Linda
Linda Johnson
Certified Cicerone®
(photos by Linda Johnson)
Opinions are my own
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