Surly Furious is an exceptional amber-colored ale that truly captures the essence of a well-balanced beer. As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of indulging in this beer multiple times and each experience has been nothing short of delightful.
Appearance:
The first thing that strikes me about Surly Furious is its beautiful amber color. It has a rich, deep hue that is visually appealing and enticing. When poured into a glass, it forms a frothy off-white head that lingers for a decent amount of time, leaving behind lacing on the sides of the glass as you savor each sip.
Aromas:
The aromas of Surly Furious are simply intoxicating. As you bring the glass closer to your nose, you are greeted with a burst of citrusy hoppy notes. The aroma is vibrant and bold, with hints of grapefruit, pine, and even a touch of tropical fruits. It's like a symphony of hops, enticing you to take that first sip.
Flavors:
Upon taking that eagerly awaited sip, the flavors of Surly Furious come alive on your palate. The citrusy hop character shines through, with a prominent grapefruit flavor that adds a refreshing and zesty quality to the beer. The hop bitterness is assertive but well-balanced, providing a satisfying contrast to the chewy caramel malt backbone that brings a touch of sweetness to the beer. The malt flavors are not overly dominant, allowing the hops to take center stage while still providing a solid foundation for the overall flavor profile.
Mouthfeel:
In terms of mouthfeel, Surly Furious has a medium body that is neither too heavy nor too light. It has a moderate carbonation level that adds a gentle effervescence to each sip. The beer has a smooth and slightly creamy texture, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
Finish:
The finish of Surly Furious is where the bitterness truly shines. It leaves a lingering hoppy bitterness on the palate, which is both refreshing and invigorating. The bitterness is not overwhelming, but rather provides a pleasant and lasting reminder of the beer's hop-forward nature.
Food Pairings:
Surly Furious is a versatile beer when it comes to food pairings. Its hoppy and citrusy flavors complement a wide range of dishes. Personally, I have enjoyed this beer with spicy foods such as buffalo wings or Thai curry, as the hop bitterness helps to cut through the heat and enhance the flavors. It also pairs well with grilled meats, burgers, and even sharp cheddar cheese.
Surly Furious is a well-crafted amber ale that showcases the artistry of brewing. It combines the best of both worlds, with citrusy hop aromas and flavors balanced out by a chewy caramel malt backbone. The refreshing bitter finish leaves you craving for more, making it a truly enjoyable beer for any hop lover.