Superbowl LI came and went. And, though fans of teams long since eliminated didn’t get to watch their teams compete, The Patriots, the Falcons, and Lady Gaga put on a show. I watched the Superbowl with a Patriots fan who appreciated the team’s astonishing comeback. My Superbowl LI Sunday beer review is on Hop City Brewing Company‘s 8th Sin Black Lager.
From Brampton, Ontario, Hop City Brewing Company has won several awards in both the Ontario and Canada Brewing Awards. In fact, 8th Sin Black Lager won Gold in the Dark Lager category in the 2016 Ontario Brewing Awards, beating out Sidelaunch Dark Lager—a beer I recently reviewed. Now, it’s time to kick off my tasting.
Hop City Brewing Company: 8th Sin Black Lager – First Sip
8th Sin Black Lager pours an impenetrable dark brown with barely any foam. I taste chocolate as I take my first sip. Its relatively low carbonation level gives 8th Sin Black Lager a smooth mouthfeel that gives way to a semi-sweet aftertaste.
Hop City Brewing Company: 8th Sin Black Lager – Last Sip
Because of its malty taste, 8th Sin Black Lager is a great beer to enjoy with something salty, spicy, or savoury. And, if you’re at a Superbowl party, I’m sure there won’t be any shortage of these. I’ve started the night out with some lime and black pepper chips, and I’m finding their combination with 8th Sin a winning one. But with its sweet taste, this brew also goes well with chili and a long list of other dishes.
I recommend pouring 8th Sin into a pint glass before drinking. This brew has a great chocolatey smell that shouldn’t be missed. And, if you drink this brew directly from its 473-mL can, you’re likely to miss it. With a 5% ABV rating, this is a good beer to start your Superbowl or other any festivities off with.
