Odell Brewing & Thornbridge Brewery – Pond Hopper
8.9% ABV
N/A IBU
Another HOMERUN for Odell Brewing Company! This is a beer I have been looking forward to for about 3 months after learning of the collaboration between Odell and Thornbridge. So much so, that I watched videos of the Thornbridge brewer talking about the collaboration. The first sip will surprise you and make you take a step back as it is HEAVIER than expected. The English malt is sweet and heavy(at least that’s what I got out of it). I’m not sure why, but I was expecting a MAJOR HOP THUD that doesn’t come. As with ALL of Odell beers, this is amazingly well balanced between the sweet malt and bitter hops. As I was anticipating this beer, I missed the part that said it was a double extra pale ale, for some reason I thought it was another Imperial IPA. Thank GOD it wasn’t, the market is full of Imperial IPA’s, I’ve not heard of another Double Extra Pale. This is a beer that I wish would become a full timer in the Odell lineup as I could drink it again and again. The label describes the collaboration and the beer this way: “Doug Odell’s admiration for the British brewing culture has led him across the pond – a lot. In 2008, Doug landed at Thornbridge Brewery and in the company of kindred brewing spirits. This visit led to a collaboration brew at Thornbridge in 2010. Fast forward to 2012 to find the two breweries at it again, this time at Odell Brewing. Pond Hopper Double Extra Pale Ale is the love child of this international brewmance. Brewed with English malt and American hops, Pond Hopper brings together the best ingredients each country has to offer, balancing subtle sweet malt character with hints of mango and peach hop flavor. It pours a rich golden color with citrus and ripe melon essence in the nose. No matter which side of the pond you’re on, here’s to good beer and good friends. Cheers.” I couldn’t have picked a BETTER beer to drink on the 4th as it brings together the two adversaries of the Revolutionary War into a FANTASTIC BEER! I may have to seek HIGH and low to find another bottle and you better do the same. WAIT A MINUTE…I have another bottle that I promised to friend in Wisconsin, decisions, decisions… Anyways, Odell has quickly become a top favorite brewery of mine!
CHEERS!!
