D2D - Update

2-mile run today!

Blue Dots = Single Mile Runs

Red Dots = Double Mile Runs

D2D - Update

The weather has been uncooperative at best, and the nicest day this week was St. Patrick's day, which means beer not running. So, I went today, and here's my latest graph. I cut two minutes off my time! I think it had more to do with the temperature increase (and therefore, comfort increase) than me training... 

Polk City Pale Ale: A Tasting

An offering from central Iowa, Polk City Pale Ale's caramel color and distinct floral qualities pleased the palatte on this fine Spring day.

The first pour gave only hints to this slightly high-gravity ale's true nature. Due to insider information, I can tell you that the brewer intended this to be an IPA, but, through the magic of the brewing process, the hoppiness was reduced in favor of a much more taciturn bouquet. 

I poured the ale into a large glass stein. Very little head developed due to the large surface area of the vessel, and for a moment I feared that I had ruined the carbonation during transport. A quick swirl of the glass revealed a modest lace that hangs to the side of the glass no longer than any good ale should.

The first taste brought memories of sierra nevada, samuel adams' various ales, all riding atop a gutsier concentration of hop oils than seen in most traditional macro brew offerings. The flavor deveops in three distinct stages:

1. First you are hit with the smell and flavor of cascade hops that bites the tip of your tongue. 

2. As the ale moves across your palatte it develops a round but not too malty body.

3. After the swallow, you are treated to a lingering hoppy bite that makes you check your stein for pieces of hops often left in unfiltered brews. However, Polk City Pale Ale is as clean as they come, transluscent but not transparent, and with no cloudiness. 

An excellent beer. As I finish my first 12 oz., my only reprieve from sadness is knowing that I have at least two more bottles in the refridgerator!