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Rick Franckhauser

Rick Franckhauser's picture
Beer Judge

Rick’s interest in beer styles and brewing began in 1975, as a part of an interest in the culinary arts but his education in beer styles began with an introduction to Michael Jackson’s “The World Guide To Beer”. In those days imported beers were hard to come by to say the least. As that began to change, his appreciation and interest in various beer styles grew stronger. Some styles remained hard to find, so in 1991, Rick began home brewing.  To increase his knowledge of the brewing process he became a member of the Cincinnati Malt Infusers homebrew club in 1996, where he served as Program Director and helps to conduct an annual BJCP exam prep class. Rick became a BJCP judge in 2004 and has risen to the rank of National. But most importantly, he loves beer! After all these years, he remains fascinated with the varied aroma and flavor experiences a beer can provide.

rick-franckhauser-cert_b0446_national.jpg

 

My articles

Though pumpkin beers are common, finely brewed examples are somewhat rare.
We all know the story. The Pilgrims were floating about looking for some new digs when they ran out of beer. So, they pulled the Mayflower over,...

My reviews

Starr Hill Amber Ale

Amber Ale by Starr Hill Brewery
Judges Rating:
93
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

Starr Hill Amber Ale was judged as an Irish Red Ale, BJCP Style Category 15A. Light caramel notes with some floral and earthy hops as well as some toasty malt notes come through with a hint of toffee in the aroma. The fermentation character is clea, and the beer pours a copper color with bright... Read More

Red Flag

Red Flag, Heavy Seas Beer
Judges Rating:
92
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

Red Flag by Heavy Seas Beer was evaluated as BJCP category 23B, Flanders Red Ale.

Red wine-like fruity esters with an impression of tart cherries, raisins and plums start off in the aroma. A rich toasty malt character comes in and overtakes the sour impression and complements the dark... Read More

Gnarly Barley Lager

Gnarly Barley Lager

Louisiana
United States
Lager, Gnarly Barley Brewing
Description 

Lager is a nicely balanced Italian Pilsner with a light malt presence while allowing a soft hoppy aroma to shine through to a crispy dry finish. Dry-hopped with Hallertau Blanc this brew presents floral notes while adding a slight hint of fruitiness.

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
4.2%
Served at: 
38 - 40º F
Malts: 
Carapils®, Pilsner
Hops: 
Hallertau Blanc

 

 


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Judges Rating:
93
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

Gnarly Barley Lager by Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. was judged as BJCP Category 34B, Mixed-Style Beer. The designation “Italian Lager” places the beer as an International Pale Lager (BJCP 2A), while the dry hopped aspect most resembles an American Pale Ale (BJCP 18B). After reviewing the beer this... Read More

Hilliard's Saison

Hilliard's Saison Beer
Judges Rating:
81
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
18 / 24
Flavor:
33 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
17 / 20

A big white fluffy head stands tall atop this hazy, light-orange beer. The foam dissipates rather quickly into a lingering creamy ring. White pepper and coriander combine with a light citric acid note that almost stings the nostrils. Some alcohol and low levels of wheat malt linger in the... Read More

Lost the Plot

Lost the Plot

Georgia
United States
Lost the Plot, Arches Brewing
Description 

British Strong Ale reminiscent of decadent, rich English toffee and fruitcake with firm bitterness to balance. Hop aromas of subtle lavender and earth.

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
7.0%
IBUs: 
38
Served at: 
50º F
Malts: 
Maris Otter, Imperial Malt, English Medium Crystal
Hops: 
East Kent Goldings

 

 


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Judges Rating:
97
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
20 / 20

Lost the Plot by Arches Brewing was judged as BJCP category 17A, British Strong Ale. First, I must say that I am pleased that someone is still brewing British strong ales. While Fuller’s 1845 and Young’s Winter Warmer can be found, it is becoming increasingly difficult... Read More

Lazy Bird Brown Ale

birdsong beer lazy bird brown ale
Judges Rating:
88
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
20 / 24
Flavor:
34 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20

Aromas of chocolate, caramel and some toasty malt are followed by faint lemony citrus hops. A little roast and coffee in the background combine with strawberry esters as it warms up. This beer pours a hazy deep mahogany with burnished copper highlights and a light tan creamy foam cap. Chocolate... Read More

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