Southern Tier Brewing Company Grand Arbor
What the brewers say
We add real maple syrup from our friends at Big Tree Maple. Grand Arbor is hazy pale straw in color with a thick rocky white head and persistent lacing. Aromatically earthy with distinct fruity esters and low-to-moderate noble hop character. Balanced fruity character blends into crisp biscuit notes with a dry tart finish.
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Strange herbal character complemented by layers of malt sweetness. Prominent phenols up front. Orange and black pepper with alcohol heat. Spicy yeast character with bananas and maple syrup.”
Flavor: “Sweet honey and syrup alongside lemon citrus. High caramel malt sweetness somewhat balanced with acidity. Light maple character, medium body, and medium bitterness. Dry finish with a carbonic bite.”
Overall: “Very enjoyable, though a bit too sweet. Nice and complex. Balance is skewed toward malt sweetness. Sweet, but surprisingly dry. Gets better as it warms. Jagged.”
