Brews and Blues Beer and Smokin’ Blues

Smithwick’s Irish Ale

I'm sure all of you have been out and about shopping and stumbled across the "Beers of the World" assorted packs in various shops. I traditionally avoid those. Most of the ones I have seen have some rather lame beers packaged up in them in hopes that someone will buy it because they couldn't sell it on a shelf somewhere else.

A recent gift from a good friend just happened to include one of said assorted packs of beer (along with a growler of Dead Guy!!!).  My first sample out of this assortment is Smithwick's Irish Ale.  It's brewed buy Guinness and it's quite tasty.  The beer has a deep amber color and a nice malty caramel flavor and an extremely nice hop balance.  I would almost put this beer on par with Murphy's Irish Red in taste and quality, but not quite.  It's close enough for all practical purposes though. 

I think, at this given moment in time, I would drink just about any beer within reach and be happy with it.  I have just put in about 24 hours of studying since Friday night.  I have my final exams this coming week, but the bulk of the work is now done.  The rest of the week should be smooth sailing (knock on wood).