Hopsecutioner

A relative newcomer to the scene, Terrapin has been producing solid beers since 2002. After just six months of brewing, its Rye Pale Ale won a gold medal at the Great American Beer Festival, setting the brewery on a fast track to build a loyal following across the Southeast and now beyond. Hopsecutioner is a brilliantly clear brew, showing a radiant, pulsating golden glow from the glass and topped by a head that, though dense and creamy, fell somewhat quickly. With a moniker as ominous as Hopsecutioner, one expects a hop explosion in this brew’s aroma. Yet when it was poured, the beer displayed a tamer, much softer hop character than its name implies. Still, the delicate hop aroma did not detract, as Tim had high praise for the soothing balance of malt and hops and was especially complimentary of the punchy citrus hop notes riding over the malt. Likewise, Tom appreciated the lemony, grapefruity notes that floated over the cookie-like malt. Unanimous in pronouncing their judgment, the panel all called Hopsecutioner an eminently drinkable beer. There were some disagreements over bitterness levels, yet everyone concurred that this was an artfully balanced brew. Nick waxed eloquent on the flavor, deeming this an “extremely drinkable” beer, redolent of fresh Georgia peaches and possibly candied pear. A tasty, accessible beer, Hopsecutioner is the perfect restorative after a long, trying workday – it truly embodies the spirit of a welcoming, comforting brew.