BEER - Drayman's Porter

Drayman's Porter from Berkshire Brewing Company is a very good option if you aren't in the mood to get punched in the face by a row of traditional Guinness pints. It's less heavy, less bitter, and goes down incredibly smoothly. A nice smokiness and the pleasant finish validated my choice. It won't replace the actual Guinness experience, but it's a damned fine alternative. 

Happy St. Patrick's Day!

BEER - Free Rise Mosaic

Last night I had my first ever saison style beer, a Free Rise Mosaic from the eastern Massachusetts Trillium Brewing Company. I'm glad my brother in law had it in his fridge.

It's a bit more carbonated than my prefered IPAs, and definitely less hoppy, but it was very good. The piney scent from the Mosaic hops is always welcome, and even though the beer is a hefty 7.3% ABV, it didn't throw me for a loop. I liked how dry it was, and also the fruity undertones. We were eating steak at my sister's house, and it paired very well.

Trillium has locations in Canton and Fort Point, plus a couple of seasonal pop-up beer gardens in Boston, on the Greenway and also on Park Drive. I might have to pay them a visit this summer and see what other beers they offer.