I took the family out to lunch at Geaghans the other day and I couldn’t help myself, I had to pick up a growler of fresh beer but I just couldn’t decide between the Bangor Brown and the Captain Kool. So naturally I got both, lucky for me Geaghans doesn’t only have 64oz Growlers they also offer a 32oz Half Growler that they call “Bangor Bottles” I loved the look of these bottles and was happy to pick them up to add to my collection.
Name: Bangor Brown
Brewed By: Geaghan Brothers Brewing
Style: American Brown Ale
ABV: 4.9%
Bottle/Draft: 32oz Growler
Bangor Brown poured a dark brown color, not much head on the pour. Holding the glass up, some light comes through but not much.
Smells very roasty, some earthy notes, most likely from the hops. With just a touch of smokiness and some bitter chocolate notes.
This is a smooth drinking beer. Nice roasty malt flavors, maybe a hint of smoke. There is a nice chocolaty flavor with a touch of caramel sweetness. The hops are really nice balance, just enough of a citrusy flavor to cut the sweet. The bittering in this beer is really well done, It’s distinct and assertive enough to fit the American style, but not so much that is should scare anyone away.
This is a nice drinking beer, super smooth. I would recommend this to anyone looking for an easy drinking beer that’s a good blend of dark and malty with a bite of hops. Swing into Geaghans and grab a pint or take home a growler of this excellent American brown ale.
Name: Captain Kool
Brewed by: Geahgan Brothers Brewing
Style: American IPA
ABV: 7.5% ABV
Bottle/Draft: 32oz Growler
Captain Kool pours a dark golden color and is crystal clear, visible carbonation but very little head produced on the pour.
This beer smells amazing! I have to assume this has been dry hopped. Big citrusy, grapefruit aroma makes my mouth water. Maybe a touch of caramel in the smell but it’s hard to be sure with all that hop goodness.
Just a touch of sweetness on the tongue, caramel notes and some toast flavors. Very hop forward; there is a strong bitterness that works well with the grapefruit and citrus. Finishes clean with just a slight lingering bitterness. Notes of pine become more noticeable as the beer warms up a bit.
I’m really impressed with this beer. It’s no secret that I’m a big fan of IPA’s; especially hop forward American IPA’s. Captain Kool did not disappoint. This is a Growler I’ll want to go back and get refilled. One of my favorite food and beer pairings is spicy boneless wings and Bitter IPA’s, Geaghans makes some pretty killer wings, I think Captain Kool would be a perfect match with them.
Cheers!
Chaddah
Links:
Geaghans Pub and Brewery