Beer Pick of the Week - Sierra Nevada Extra Special Bitter

Sierra Nevada Extra Special Bitter (ESB)
Sierra Nevada Brewing Company
Chico, CA
5.9% ABV
As usual, Sierra Nevada is spot on with this early spring seasonal that adds a bit of hop assertiveness to the classic English ESB. The aroma of fresh, floral hops hits the nose right away from this amber-gold beer. Spicy, citrusy hops are up front in the taste, giving way to a light malt base of traditional Maris-Otter malts. A bit of fruitiness is manifested in a hint of strawberry and a green apple tartness that befits the style. The mouthfeel is crisp and tingly, with a pleasant lingering bitterness.