#malt backbone

[texasbeernerd]

Shiny Diamonds Ale by Independence Brewing Co.

Shiny Diamonds Ale, a new offering from Austin’s Independence Brewing was inspired by Dio’s “Holy Diver” and I actually killed one of these in the 4 minutes and some change that it took to listen to the song. This is a classic American Pale Ale. It has a citrusy hop flavor and is balanced by a doughy/bready malt backbone. The somewhat lighter body does make this a pretty no frills, easy drinking beer. So like the eyes of a cat in the black and blue I recommend this shiny new beer. 

[texasbeernerd]

Hop Bullet by Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.

Spring seasonal? I know California has perpetually nice weather but it ain’t Spring yet. Even in Texas it’s still cold. We’ve gotten a couple snow days even. Anyway, this is a great IPA but I would expect nothing less from one of the originators of hoppy American craft beer. The hop flavor is mostly pine but there’s a hint of citrus too. The hop bitterness lingers for awhile. The beer pours with a frothy head and there’s a good malt backbone to balance everything out.