Ophelia

Reviewers: John Holl

Breckenridge Brewery

Denver

Type of Beer: Hoppy Wheat Ale

ABV: 5%

Appearance: A fluffy white head rests atop a hazy honey-golden ale.

Aroma: Grapefruit and orange hop aroma forward, with some mango and pineapple juice mixed in for good measure.

Mouthfeel: Somewhat thin for an unfiltered beer but lively carbonation makes it a tongue scrubber in a good way.

Taste: Tangy, like fresh fruit juice, with an earthy roundness, and a dry finish that is pleasing.

Overall Impression: There has been a trend in American brewing to hop up any style of beer. Wheat beers are typically hearty and malt forward, with hop characteristics relegated to the background. So, when I read “hoppy wheat” on the label, I held my breath for a moment. Why mash up two styles (wheat and pale ale) when either could stand well on their own? Well, I’m glad that Breckenridge broke the rules, because this beer is a beauty. Using the Mosaic hop—a popular variety at the moment that imparts flavors of tropical fruits—the beer is refreshing like a well made cocktail with flavors of fresh pineapple juice, orange and grapefruit. This is a seasonal beer available now through April, when I imagine people will be walking around asking “Ophelia, where have you gone?”