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We spoke with The Boston Beer Co. Founder and Brewer Jim Koch about Samuel Adams Utopias 2019.
BC: Who came up with this beer’s recipe?
In 2002, when the big brewers were competing to see how light they could make a beer, we were focused on the dark mysteries on the other end of the spectrum. Sam Adams pioneered barrel-aging and extreme brewing in 1994 with Triple Bock which shocked the beer community with an ABV of 17.4%. We’re continuing to push the envelope with each biennial release of Utopias.
BC: What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
Each Utopias release is a feat of brewing. Utopias tests the skill and imagination of our brewers like no other beer. While some may think we’re chasing a tipping point of alcohol levels, with each new batch of Utopias the brewers are pushing for a complex flavor profile. Though some of the barrels have reached over 30% ABV in the brewing process, we blend down to craft complex flavors, not an extreme alcohol percentage.
BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
At the lunatic fringe of brewing, you’ll find Utopias.
BC: What's a good food pairing for this beer?
Utopias has such a unique and complex flavor profile that it truly stands on its own. Try a drizzle on clam chowder for a surprisingly balanced taste.