As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and evaluate a wide range of beers, including Sam Adams. When it comes to evaluating the taste of a beer, it is important to consider personal preferences and also how well the beer aligns with the characteristics of its intended style.
In the case of Sam Adams, particularly their Vienna Style Lager, I must say that while it is undoubtedly a well-crafted lager, I find it falls short as an example of the Vienna Style. Let me explain why.
The first thing that strikes me about Sam Adams Vienna Style Lager is its hoppiness. While some beer styles, such as IPAs, are known for their hop-forward profiles, the Vienna Style Lager is not typically associated with strong hop bitterness. In this beer, the hop character seems to overpower the other flavors, resulting in a beer that is more bitter than what is expected for the style.
Furthermore, the use of caramel malt in Sam Adams Vienna Style Lager contributes to a noticeable sweetness that is not characteristic of traditional Vienna lagers. While some level of malt sweetness is expected in this style, it should be more of a toasty-malty flavor derived from Vienna malt rather than a caramel-like sweetness. This deviation from the norm detracts from the authenticity of the beer.
Having said that, it is important to note that taste preferences can vary greatly among individuals. Some beer drinkers may enjoy the hop-forwardness and the caramel sweetness present in Sam Adams Vienna Style Lager, and that is perfectly fine. Taste is subjective, and what matters most is whether you personally enjoy the beer or not.
From a technical perspective, Sam Adams beers are generally well-crafted, and their Vienna Style Lager is no exception. The brewing process, quality ingredients, and attention to detail all contribute to a beer that is clean, crisp, and well-balanced in its own right. However, when evaluating it specifically as a Vienna Style Lager, I find it lacking in certain key aspects.
While I regard Sam Adams Vienna Style Lager as an excellent beer in its own right, I would not consider it to be a true representation of the Vienna Style. Its hop bitterness and caramel sweetness deviate from the traditional flavor profile of the style, and it lacks the distinct toasty-malty character that is expected. Nonetheless, taste is subjective, and what matters most is whether you personally enjoy the beer or not.