Magic Beer

I don't usually buy all beer from one brewery when I go shopping, but this time I did just that.  I picked up the Winterland variety pack from Magic Hat.  I don't normally get out of the store for less then twenty bucks and that usually only nets me a six pack, but I got this box of twelve for less then twenty.  Thumbs up so far.  Their designs are eye catching and memorable and possibly my favorite visual thing from them is the inside of the caps.  Under each bottle cap is a lovely little saying about beer or life in general.  Fun conversation starters.  On to the brews!  Four beers within to try.  Lets get started.

First up is Encore which they call an American Wheat IPA.  It has a bright but not overwhelming bitterness from the start.  A mild fruity flavor and a bit of an earthy grain note comes in as you go.  Overall a tasty brew somewhere between a typical IPA and a wheat beer.

Second is the Ravell, a porter brewed with vanilla.  From the first sip I was a fan of this porter.  It has rich coffee, caramel, and vanilla flavors mixing around over a mild malt base.  It's not a very heavy brew just a bold flavored well balanced porter I look forward to drinking again.

Third is Howl the black lager.  It has a rich malt base with strong dark coffee flavor and traces of vanilla and dark chocolate.  It was moist and refreshing.  As long as you like coffee notes, you should like this beer.

Last in the box is their #9 which they call the Not Quite Pale Ale.  This is the Magic Hat beer you will find most often (at least in stores in my area).  It is a mild flavored brew with a slightly fruity vibe.  It's a totally drinkable beer but in my opinion nothing to run off and demand your friends try.

I have to say the winner from this pack for me was the Ravell.  I just loved the way the flavors were layered.  Magic Hat scores a thumbs up from me.  Since it was a twelve pack I still have some waiting for me tonight. . .although the Ravell may all be gone already. On the affordable side of good beer, Magic Hat is definitely near the top for me.  And gee it's time for a new seasonal variety pack to come out! Cheers!