Winnikeg, Manitobeer--Simcoe Spruce

Simcoe Spruce is sold under the aegis of Winnipeg, Manitoba's Half Pints Brewing Co., though according to the label, this stuff is brewed by Dean Kelly and was the Best in Show winner of the 2013 Half Pints Pro/Am Brew Challenge. Sold in 650mL bottles, Simcoe Spruce contains 5% alcohol and 35 IBUs. The label also informed me that this stuff is brewed in an American Pale Ale style using Simcoe hops, as well as spruce tips.

It's a meagerly hazy copper ale that pours with an inviting off-white head. There's a sizable hops aroma that is evergreen heavy--aided, not doubt, by the use of spruce tips. There is also a significant malt waft and a slightly metallic bent. The beer's glorious flavour tastes deeper than the 35 IBUs listed. There is a malty structure, but the outer workings are all woodsy hops and spicy spruce.  It definitely isn't the dry spruce of the holidays, either, but a fresh, fragrant spruce of damp spring.

I downed a bottle of this impressive ale during a thrilling autumn thunder storm, and it contributed to a pretty swell show. I would call this a great beer. I'd have liked a touch more booze, but that's pretty much my only complaint.

Rating: 9.0 out of 10.