Conscious of the risk that our readers will form an inaccurate perception of my lifestyle by posting two beer reviews in one day, I’ve decided to publish a review of another I recently enjoyed: AVBC’s Boont ESB (Extra Special Beer).
Boont ESB is deliciously hoppy, but stops itself short of the indulgence of your typical IPA. Rather than providing over-the-top hoppiness, Boont ESB is a full-bodied, flavorful, and well-balanced brew. The hops are surely enough for “serious” beer drinkers but not enough to turn this beer into a novelty item.
Pours coppery or dark amber with medium head and perfect clarity. Not much for lacing. Enticing, moderately herbal aroma. Full, hoppy flavor and body. What pushes this beer into “excellent” status is its surprisingly crisp finish. Unlike many heavily-hopped beers, you won’t have a bitter aftertaste in your mouth after you drink a Boont ESB. This is likely the best ESB I’ve tried; definitely better than New Belgium’s 2 Below, and even a notch above Red Hook’s ESB, which is also quite good. I give Boont ESB 89 points out of 100.
[Photo courtesy of AVBC.com]
But is it hoppy enough to withstand a long sea voyage on a hot boat?…
Anderson Valley is pretty solid. I’d probably rate the brewery in the 70s – the ESB in the same range.
Lagunitas and Anchor are tied for my favorite West Coast breweries.
My personal favorite (as ESBs go) is Ringwood Old Thumper from Shipyard. That one breaks into the 90s in by book.
I love Red Hook but – based on our common experience, I think we’d all agree – it is NOT an ideal keg beer. Hahaha
Yeah, haha. Redhook was a bad keg beer. I’m pretty sure that was my fault, so apologies.