By Julia Burke, Beer Editor

Saranac A style that often disappoints due to lack of depth, Irish Red is a rust belt staple and a must-have for the upcoming fish fry season. This one is an addition to Saranac's massive lineup of seasonals.

Its puffy two-and-a-half finger head, bronze-redhead orange color and decent lacing definitely invite sippage. 

On the nose, malty caramel, honey, toasted marshmallow and freshly mowed straw aromas show an appetizing and balanced flavor profile with a little more chutzpah than I'd expect from this style.

There's a big, sweet palate too, with a crisp hop finish and length that maintains its touch of sweetness deftly.

This red gets better and better as it warms up, too — a feat I don't take lightly after getting sick of many a mainstream Irish Red within 10 minutes.

A very good effort from Saranac and a terrific partner to fish fry, potato pancakes, and other March Euro-fare.

Producer: Saranac (with Matt Brewing Company)
ABV: 4.5%
Sample Size: 12 oz. bottle
Stemware: Saranac tall pint glass
Price: $8.99/sixpack
Score: B