Gnarly Barley Lager by Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. was judged as BJCP Category 34B, Mixed-Style Beer. The designation “Italian Lager” places the beer as an International Pale Lager (BJCP 2A), while the dry hopped aspect most resembles an American Pale Ale (BJCP 18B). After reviewing the beer this... Read More
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Rick Franckhauser
Beer Judge
Rick’s interest in beer styles and brewing began in 1975, as a part of an interest in the culinary arts but his education in beer styles began with an introduction to Michael Jackson’s “The World Guide To Beer”. In those days imported beers were hard to come by to say the least. As that began to change, his appreciation and interest in various beer styles grew stronger. Some styles remained hard to find, so in 1991, Rick began home brewing. To increase his knowledge of the brewing process he became a member of the Cincinnati Malt Infusers homebrew club in 1996, where he served as Program Director and helps to conduct an annual BJCP exam prep class. Rick became a BJCP judge in 2004 and has risen to the rank of National. But most importantly, he loves beer! After all these years, he remains fascinated with the varied aroma and flavor experiences a beer can provide.
My reviews
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
Appearance:
5 / 6
Aroma:
18 / 24
Flavor:
33 / 40
Mouthfeel:
8 / 10
Overall Impression:
17 / 20
A big white fluffy head stands tall atop this hazy, light-orange beer. The foam dissipates rather quickly into a lingering creamy ring. White pepper and coriander combine with a light citric acid note that almost stings the nostrils. Some alcohol and low levels of wheat malt linger in the... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
20 / 20
Lost the Plot by Arches Brewing was judged as BJCP category 17A, British Strong Ale. First, I must say that I am pleased that someone is still brewing British strong ales. While Fuller’s 1845 and Young’s Winter Warmer can be found, it is becoming increasingly difficult... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
17 / 24
Flavor:
29 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
14 / 20
Amazingly fresh green jalapeño and deep poblano pepper aromatics lead the way. It doesn’t burn your nose, but you know it’s going to be spicy before your first sip. A fleeting scent of toasty malt is detected but no hops were found in this Pale Ale. The flavor followed the aroma – it’s all about... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
22 / 24
Flavor:
38 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20
Funkier Pumpkin was evaluated as a Wild Specialty Beer (2015 Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) Category 28C) offering according to BJCP guidelines.
Ahhh, Brettanomyces. All who feel compelled to give in to pumpkin beer peer pressure this fall, but don’t really like pumpkin beers,... Read More
Appearance:
6 / 6
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
37 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
18 / 20
Starr Hill Looking Glass IPA was judged as an American IPA, BJCP Style Category 21A. Fresh grapefruit with some pine resin, a little pineapple and a touch of mango are apparent upfront in the aroma. Very subtle grainy malt lurks beneath the hops. Clean fermentation, a yellow-gold color with some... Read More