Beer and spicy food… pretty much describes some of my favorite eating experiences. Is spicy beer the logical next step? Rogue Brewery apparently thought so, and it’s my duty to take the challenge with Rogue Chipotle Ale.
Rogue Chipotle Ale was a clear, dark orange hue in the glass with ample carbonation capped with a thin, lumpy head. The nose had the smoky, metallic earthiness I associate with chipotle peppers, which was distinct enough to mask any other fragrances I would typically associate with an ale.
The brief citrus hopped opening of Rogue Chipotle Ale, reminiscent of a good pale ale, quickly was overtaken by smoky chipotle. The earthier qualities of the chipotle came through the smoke and the ale settled into a bready flavor. As the ale faded, the heat from the chipotle came through and ended the experience on a dry, earthy note.
Rogue Chipotle Ale isn’t about heat, it’s about the earthy flavor. The heat is barely there (you’d be hard pressed to find someone who considers it too spicy), but the chipotle flavor is prominent throughout. The combination of implied richness from the chiles and crisp lightness of the ale make for an interesting pint, but are a little fatiguing by 22oz. Chalk this one up to another “special occasion” beer.
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