Brooklyn Local 1

Brooklyn...the name conjures up images of a hard working, beer-drinking people that were not afraid of putting in a hard days work, as long as it gave way to a hard-playing evening. This is what I expected from the Brooklyn Brewery. The first time I laid eyes on the tall "Local 1" bottle, I knew that I would be subjected to a serious Brew. I expected the best, so I saved it to enjoy during a seriously anticipated Soccer match over the weekend. The Brooklyn Brewery had been okay so far, until I heard that they were actually a front for a much larger mega-brewery. What the hell, good beer is GOOD beer, and I was more then willing to sample the best that the Steeplechase Smile had to offer. Here's what the website had to say:

Brewed by Brooklyn Brewery
Style: Belgian Strong Ale
Brooklyn, New York USA

In Williamsburg, Brooklyn, we forge barley malt and hops from Germany, aromatic raw sugar from Mauritius and yeast from Belgium into our latest beer, Brooklyn Local 1. Behind the full golden color you'll find an alluring aroma, a dynamic complex of flavors. Belgian flair, Brooklyn fortitude and a dusting of our special yeast. To create this beer, we use the old technique of 100% bottle re-fermentation, a practice now rare even in Europe. It gives this beer a palate of unusual depth. Enjoy it locally or globally, as an aperitif or with your favorite dishes. It is particularly nice with spicy seafood and with fine cheeses.

WEBSITE:

http://www.brooklynbrewery.com/

REVIEW:

You know, the last time that I hit up the Brooklyn Brewery, I was a little unimpressed with their Summer Ale...I hate to say it, but history has repeated itself. Once again, I was a little unimpressed by the Brooklyn Boys. Their "Local 1" seemed to lack character. It was a little boring. It's billed as a Strong Ale, but it truly seemed tame. The taste was a little off too. For a strong brew, I could clearly taste too much fruitiness and a serious attempt to over-craft this brew. Disappointed...yes, but probably because I expected so much. In the end, the "Local 1" is a great table beer to be enjoyed with friends.

RATING: 6/10