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Pete Garofalo

Pete Garofalo's picture
Beer Judge

A Grand Master IV beer judge, Pete has been appreciating good beers since the days when locating a tavern with two “alternative” taps was a major find. He has been a homebrewer since 1991 and an active member of the Beer Judge Certification Program since 1994. He formerly served on the BJCP Board of Directors as the Northeast/International representative and remains active as a judge. 

 

BJCP Certificate

My reviews

A Night in Brussels

A Night in Brussels Three Taverns Craft Beer
Judges Rating:
90
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

This is an interesting concept beer that lovers of Belgian beers or IPAs will enjoy. Initially quite aromatic, with floral, perfumy American hops atop a peppery Belgian yeast character and subtle toasty malt. Bitterness seems subdued for an IPA, but spicy yeast character helps bring this beer... Read More

Hell's Belle

Hell's Belle
Judges Rating:
83
Appearance:
4 / 6
Aroma:
20 / 24
Flavor:
33 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

Nutty, grainy malt initially takes center stage buttressed by a sweet, honey-like character. Light tropical fruit esters along with a spicy alcohol punch round out the aroma. The flavor likewise begins with a sweet bready/grainy, graham cracker maltiness that turns into tongue-grabbing ... Read More

Oktoberfest-Märzen

Oktoberfest-Märzen
Judges Rating:
93
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

The relatively pale color belies the malt intensity as an aroma of rich, toasty Vienna malt wafts up, inviting deeper scrutiny. Layers of malt suggest bread crust, graham crackers, and grainy malt with a suggestion of molasses. A hint of fl oral hops contributes to a delicate balance. The malty... Read More

Raging Bitch

Flying Dog Raging Bitch Belgian IPA Beer
Judges Rating:
83
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
20 / 24
Flavor:
33 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
16 / 20

The initial whiff is of ham-like smokiness, quickly followed by bubblegum esters. Toasty/grainy malt with a trace of caramel is supported by a light presence of peppery phenols. The taste starts with toasted malt, along with some caramel and toffee that is swept away by a pungent bitterness that... Read More

Hopothermia

Alaskan Beer Hopothermia Double IPA
Judges Rating:
95
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20

Fresh, intense hops are prominent in the aroma; hints of tropical fruit are blended with an underlying resinous essence. Fruitiness is compounded by ester contributions from the fermentation, adding pineapple and berry character that invites a first sip. The flavor delivers on the promised hop... Read More

Black Butte Porter

Deschutes Beer Black Butte Porter
Judges Rating:
91
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
36 / 40
Mouthfeel:
9 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20

A rich mélange of dark chocolate and roast malt also displays hints of toasted grain, bread crust, and even toffee that all add to the multiple layers of malt complexity. Subtle fruity aromatics evoke cherry or berry, with an added dried fruit character (apricot, fi g, date). The flavor is also... Read More

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