winter beer review #6: Deschutes Jubelale

Steve lives to see another day.

This winter warmer is from Oregon, so I expected to taste hops. I’m not real crazy about overly-hopped beers when the style typically or historically doesn’t call for it. And I don’t like overly-hopped winter beers.

But like the Colorado beers before it, I’m surprisingly not annoyed by too many hops. This beer is definitely hoppier than those, but generally, I’d say this western brewer managed to show some restraint and keep it balanced. Also, I might be wrong, but it seems that the hops are mellowing as the beer warms.

Anyway, Jubelale is really tasty. It’s roasty and toasty, with subtle dark-fruitiness. A bit alcoholic and hoppy, plus a little spicy at the end. Yes, this is a good beer. I recommend it.