Taking it Deep with the Scuttlebutt Big Dumper Lager
I was craving something from my youth when I stopped in at Red Robin to have a Banzai Burger, and of course, there wasn't a lot of what I'd call a good beer selection to go with it. Well, fortunately, they did have a beer that’s been generating as much buzz as a bases-loaded bottom of the ninth. The Big Dumper Lager from Everett’s Scuttlebutt Brewing.
If you’re a Mariners baseball fan, you know the name. Cal "Big Dumper" Raleigh has become a folk hero behind the dish, and this collaboration with Scuttlebutt, a brewery Cal used to frequent during his AquaSox days, is a home run for the local scene.
Wee've seen the branding at the grocery store and it is bold, unapologetic, and features that iconic trident-inspired energy. I immediately recognized the tap handle when glacing over at the bar at Red Robin and didn't hesitate to add it to my order. I believe this is the kind of beer you want in your hand while firing up the smoker or sitting in the bleachers at T-Mobile Park. And of course, Wee always love a beer that doesn't take itself too seriously but still delivers on the craft.
If you're not in the mood for a single, double, or triple IPA (a rarity in our case). the Big Dumper Lager is a beer that’s sessionable enough for a long afternoon but has enough character to keep things interesting. I gave it 3 caps on Untappd which is a solid rating in my scorebook for a lager.
The Big Dumper hits the plate at a clean 4.5% ABV with 25 IBUs. It pours a crystal-clear straw gold with a light, frothy head. On the first sip, you get that classic, crisp lager snap. It’s got a mild malty backbone, but the real star here is the hop profile. Scuttlebutt used hops that provide a distinct light lime note.
It’s not a "lime beer" in the artificial, candy-sweet sense; it’s more of a bright, zesty citrus undertone that cuts through the malt and makes it incredibly delicious. It actually reminded me a bit of a high-end Mexican lager but with that distinct Washington craft touch.
The Wee Verdict for Scuttlebutt Big Dumper Lager
This beer is a "Utility King." It’s perfect for yard work, watching the game with your buddies, and when you just want a beer that tastes like a really good beer.
Now, we’ve seen some debate online about the lime intensity, but for us, it hits the sweet spot. It’s refreshing, nostalgic, and a great tribute to Seattle’s favorite catcher. If you’re in the Everett area, stop in at Scuttlebutt. If you see it on tap at a Red Robin or local pub, have a pint. Or if you spot it at your local grocery store, buy a six-pack before the M’s hit their next winning streak.
Thanks to Cal and the Scuttlebutt crew for this one!
- Brewery: Scuttlebutt Brewing Company (Everett, WA)
- Beer: Big Dumper Lager
- Style: American Lager
- ABV: 4.5%
- Pairs Well With: Ballpark franks, yard work, and 9th-inning walk-offs.