As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to closely observe the evolution of Samuel Adams' Boston Lager. Over the course of three years, the team at Samuel Adams has made subtle yet significant changes to their iconic beer.
One of the main goals of this evolution was to reduce the malt sweetness and body of Boston Lager. This was done to create a beer that is more approachable and appeals to a wider range of beer drinkers. By toning down the malt, Samuel Adams aimed to make the beer more balanced and refreshing.
In addition to reducing the malt sweetness, the team also worked on bringing the hops more to the forefront. Hops add bitterness, aroma, and flavor to beer, and by amplifying these characteristics, Samuel Adams aimed to create a more pronounced hop profile in Boston Lager.
I had the opportunity to taste the different iterations of the evolving Boston Lager, and it was fascinating to observe the gradual changes. The malt sweetness became less dominant, allowing the hops to shine through. The beer became crisper and more refreshing, with a pleasing bitterness that balanced out the flavors.
The process of tweaking a beer like Boston Lager is complex and requires careful consideration of each ingredient and its impact on the final product. It is not simply a matter of adding more hops or reducing the malt. It is a delicate dance of adjusting proportions and finding the perfect balance.
Samuel Adams approached this evolution with a great deal of thought and dedication. They took their time to ensure that each adjustment was made with utmost care and consideration for the overall flavor profile of Boston Lager.
In the end, the changes made to Boston Lager were not drastic. It is still the same beloved beer that many have come to know and enjoy. However, it now boasts a slightly crisper and more balanced flavor profile, with the hops taking center stage.
Samuel Adams' evolution of Boston Lager is a testament to their commitment to constantly improving and refining their beers. It is a reflection of their passion for the craft and their desire to create the best possible drinking experience for their customers.