Western beers, like the size of their states, pack BIG flavors. There is not one distinctive style to the region, but whatever style they brew they brew it large. These beers are the perfect companion on whatever adventure awaits you.
New Mexico
Elevated IPA – La Cumbre Brewing Company
Elevated IPA an American IPA (7.2% ABV) is referred to by La Cumbre Brewing Company, in Albuquerque, as their flagship beer. When this IPA is poured into a pint glass, it’s deep gold color and its off-white head become very apparent. The aroma is citrusy, piney and tropical fruit with a good malt character. If you like a hoppy IPA you will be very happy with Elevated IPA.
The taste is hoppy with citrus and a light sweetness with just enough bitterness and it is not over the top. The 7.2 % alcohol is present, but it is not pronounced in its taste. The bottle art is exceptional and gets your attention as you look for this IPA. We at America Unraveled have picked Elevated IPA as the number one beer in New Mexico because it is a big hoppy IPA that is done right.
Texas
Atrial Rubicite American Wild Ale – Jester King Brewery
Alcohol 5.8%
Since I am not from around these parts I had to stop and ask the question, “What is an American Wild Ale?” Jester King Brewery, in Austin, describes this beer this way, “Atrial Rubicite is made from well water, barley, wheat, hops, farmhouse yeast, native yeast from the Texas
Hill country, souring bacteria and it is unpasteurized and 100% bottle conditioned.” That all sounds pretty exotic to me, so the best way to evaluate any beer is to taste it and that is what I did. Consequently, America Unraveled has picked Atrial Rubicite American Wild Ale (5.8%ABV) as the number one beer in Texas.
When you pour this beer from bottle to glass it is red with minimal white head. The aroma is raspberry jam and the taste is berries in the beginning and with a tart finish. I did not find the taste overly sour. It is dry and easy drinking and it is the best fruit beer I have ever tasted.
Idaho
Black Cauldron Russian Imperial Stout – Grand Teton Brewing Company
Black Cauldron Russian Imperial Stout (9.5% ABV) brewed in Victor, was picked by America Unraveled as the top beer in Idaho. When it is poured into a glass it has a black body with a minimal tan head. The aroma is of dark and roasted malt smell along with coffee, chocolate, and raisins. The taste reflects the aroma with clear tastes of chocolate, coffee and molasses. This Imperial Stout is very impressive and very drinkable. It is not overly sweet and spicy and the hops become more apparent in the aftertaste. This is a Stout that is a must try.
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