Tire Bite

With Tire Bite Golden Ale, Flying Dog shows why they are a powerhouse, perennially award-winning brewery. Exceptionally well-crafted, this brew is crisp, refreshing and reminiscent of the fruitier examples of the classic Kölschbiers. Pours an inviting brilliant gold, topped by a meringue-like, stark-white head. Aromas redolent of orange-blossom honey, nectarine, Anjou pear and Muscat grape ride over creamy, Ritz Cracker-like malt and compel one to dig further. Tom complimented the clean cookie dough-like malt and hint of orange peel, and Lee offered high praise for the slightly mineral Pinot Grigio tinge to the aroma. As with any classic golden ale, the flavor was all about finesse and subtlety, with the slightly grainy edge of the malt tamed by the lush fruit flavors of ripe papaya, Asian pear and just enough bitterness to balance. Given the beer’s complex fruity flavors, Pete was pleasantly surprised by the crisp, quenching finish, commenting that this is a stellar session beer – “the stuff of liters.” Tim offered that with some spicy Hallertau or Tettnang hop flavors, this beer would be a “classic.” The folks at Flying Dog have a lot to be proud of, and Tire Bite Golden Ale plays a big part in that. This beer should have pride of place in any true beer connoisseur’s working stock.