By Julia Burke, Beer Editor

An amber is always great for late fall, so I picked up a growler of this southwestern New York brew (labelled "German Red" at the store and not to be confused with EBC's new German steinbier – more on that to come) to share with some friends.

A festive, clear dark sienna color appropriate for this style, it pours a two-finger airy head the texture of light meringue. 

The nose is quite hoppy and less malty than expected for the appearance, showing notes of toasted hay and orange peel.

On  the palate the hops are even more pronounced but somewhat balanced by nutty malt, with tasty orange marmalade and ginger flavors. The hop presence continues full force in the finish, which is smacky but a bit short. 

A nice fall beer – nothing exciting here, but nothing to dislike. Appropriate for fall camping trips as it's quite sessionable.

Producer: Ellicottville Brewing Company
ABV: 5.2%
Sample Size: 16 oz. pint
Stemware: Pint glass
Price: $9/growler
Rating: B-