Magic Hat
South Burlington, Vermont
The Brewery:
Opened in 1994 in Burlington, Vermont, Magic Hat earns its name by producing beer that is different but drinkable. Now owned by Florida Ice & Farm Co. (which operates many breweries, including the management of Labatt), Magic Hat doesn't have the nostalgia or "by the people" feel usually associated with our favorite craft breweries, but is still enjoyed by many in the industry.
--based on information from the Magic Hat website
The Beer:
#9:
- Their flagship beer, #9's claim to fame is that it's "not quite" a pale ale. Everything about this beer is super subtle. It is medium-bodied, drinks crisp, and boasts apricot, bread, even a little citrus, characteristics. Everything blends together to create a beer that is crisp and refreshing to drink that has a hard to pin under-lining. Nothing real bitter by any means, nor fruity. Goes down easy though and is a change of pace when looking for something different that's not too bold.
Rank: Six-Pack
Dream Machine IPL:
- A rare find, an IPL (India Pale Lager) is a fun twist on IPA's. With the body of a lager, it is light bodied and isn't going to distract with malt or other tastes associated with ales. Nice and bitter, the lager qualities make it tame and the hop flavors are simple and stand-alone. A great beer if you want hops but not as heavy and filling.
Rank: Pint
Pistil:
- A summer beer brewed with dandelion petals, Pistil is floral and grassy with typical lager qualities. Has a bit of sour acidity which plays well with the flavors present. Leaves a grass-like flavor on the palate. Can be watery, which was a little off-putting to me.
Rank: Pint
The Advice:
Magic Hat doesn't put out a lot of standout beer, but their stuff is drinkable and worth trying. They produce beer that is different and unique, while still making it drinkable for everyone. Whenever I see a new Magic Hat beer, I go out of my way to give it a try.
Magic Hat doesn't put out a lot of standout beer, but their stuff is drinkable and worth trying. They produce beer that is different and unique, while still making it drinkable for everyone. Whenever I see a new Magic Hat beer, I go out of my way to give it a try.