Judge’s Review: 95 Rating – Full Circle by New Holland Brewing Co.

Kölsch | Seasonal | United States

By Michael Heniff

Judges Rating: 95
Aroma: 23
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 37
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 19

Full Circle by New Holland Brewing Co. is a Kölsch and is being evaluated as a Kölsch (category 5B in the 2021 BJCP Beer Style Guidelines). The Kölsch style is a German ale that has a delicate balance of malt, hops and esters.
Full Circle pours straw in color, is brilliantly clear, and sports a small white head.  The aroma features moderately light pilsner malt that is delicately balanced with light spicy and herbal hops and a hint of floral esters. The flavor is similarly balanced to the aroma with moderately light pilsner malt and light spicy hops. The beer finishes with a moderately light bitterness, light spicy hops and light pilsner malt.
Full Circle is an outstanding Kölsch. The quality of the malt and hops are top-notch; I can almost envision being in Cologne from the taste alone. The malt and hops are perfectly balanced with a light showing of esters. The only detraction is that the bitterness is a little on the high side and lingers into the finish.  Regardless, this is a very well brewed Kölsch and is very enjoyable to drink. Prost!