This content was originally published by The Hop Review, a digital magazine that joined the Hop Culture family in March 2020.
This piece was written by Robert Battista.
Each month, we share a beer that we think you oughta pick up. We’ve been working with a local bottle shop to select a beer that’s seasonably appropriate, accessible, not too harsh on the wallet, and might even impress your friends.
Inching closer to warmer weather, THR’s March BOTM is
Brought to us by Bottles & Cans
Since 2011, Finch’s Beer Co. has been pumping out 4 packs to Chicagoan’s across the city. With some lofty expansion plans, expect to be seeing more Finch offerings at both your local bars and bottles shops. Or check out their digs yourself when they open a taproom in late 2016 early 2017. To find out even more, check out our Brewer Chat with Finch’s Beer Co.
For our March BOTM, we wanted something that could keep you warm on a cold night but also substitute for one of those 50 degree days as well. We were on the lookout for a DIPA and our friends at Bottles & Cans said they had something in mind. Enter Hardcore Chimera.
Take a look at the specs…
- Finch’s Beer Co. (Chicago, IL)
- Style: Imperial IPA
- ABV: 9%
- Price: $10.99
You can pick up the Finch’s Hardcore Chimera yourself at Bottles & Cans (4109 N. Lincoln Ave.) in Northcenter. If ya get to Bottles & Cans, ask for other recommendations from owners Joe and Carly or any of the other knowledgeable staff on hand. And tell ’em we say hey!
THR Thoughts…
We are calling this our perfect transition beer. It takes you from the cold dark winter and gets your ready for the spring months ahead. At 9%, this beer will keep you warm on cold days but the juicy, fruity, and citrusy notes are reminiscent of a summer session beer. This one pours a hazy orange with a white fluffy head giving way to an aroma of sticky, resiny hops. Overall, an incredibly balanced beer. You’ll get a hint of booziness, but before it gets too potent you’ll be hit with some malt sweetness and then finally a nice amount of bitterness lingers at the finish. As this one floats across the tongue, you get hit with three really distinct flavor experiences. It toys with the boundaries of being too boozy or too bitter but it never crosses the line and it keeps you coming back sip after sip. If you are looking forward to warmer months ahead, grab a 4 pack and start transitioning your palate now.
