TGIF: By The Moonlight

Let’s be honest…there are worse ways to kickstart the weekend than with a cold beverage.

And yet, it’s easy to fall into a routine of buying the same couple of beers or spirits at your favorite watering hole or the LCBO. Of course, there’s always going to be your standard go-to’s. But mixing it up (get it…mixing???) makes for a fun outing.

With that in mind, we’re taking a shot (bet you thought we would stop with the drinking puns after that first one) at finding you a weekly selection of spirits to liven up your Friday.

This week why don’t your try…

Moonlight On Chrome: Redline Brewhouse

The first impression is a good one, conveyed by the inviting appearance. The initial pour is a rich golden color, slightly hazy, with a finger plus of head. Although it is short lived, it leaves a nice egg shell white of spotty lacing in it’s wake.

The sitting improves with the first smell. You’ll detect wafts of light citrus, mingled with candied pineapple and mango. This aroma could perhaps be a bit more forceful without detracting from the experience. But the subdued hints of the fruit is pleasant.

On to the taste. This brings a light grainy flavor to the taste buds initially, followed by splashes of sweetness. The candied mango and pineapple really stands out here. After the first few sips, weedy hop qualities come to the forefront, offering an earthy sensation to the sitting.

As for the mouthfeel, Moonlight is medium-light bodied, punctuated by crisp carbonation and a dry finish that is near chalky.

Overall this a creamy beer that comes together nicely and is stronger than the sum of its parts. Best paired with traditional pub fare favoring sharper, salty sides to balance the sweeter sections of the drink.

By the numbers:

• ABV : 4.3
• IBU (THEORETICAL) : 53
• MALT : 2-ROW, MUNICH 1 MALT, FLAKED OATS, FLAKED WHEAT