My Review Of Surly’s Rose Lager

Okay, so I’ve been diving into the craft beer scene for roughly a year and a half now. I think that means I’ve earned the title of amateur beer snob. I’m not a professional yet, but I’d like to think I’m climbing the ladder.Amateur though I may be, I’ve consumed my fair share of beer, and I know a good beer from a bad one (and there are PLENTY of bad ones out there.) Even brands that generally offer decent beverages often make a few mistakes here and there.

But there’s one brand that I’ve been digging recently that I can honestly say I’ve been impressed with all the way around. I’m talking about the one and only – Surly. If you’re a Minnesotan, you’re already familiar with this name.They’re the most famous craft beer made in Minnesota, and for good reason. Every beverage they have to offer downright awesome. I recently decided to try the Surly Rose Lager. It’s a fruit infused lager with notes of black currant and strawberries.

Unlike many of their other signature beverages (Darkness, Furious, Etc.) which are an assault on the senses (in a good way) this is Surly’s effort to make a beverage that’s a little easier to handle.I tried a couple of these bad boys over the weekend, and I have to say, it didn’t disappoint. As someone who enjoys fruity beverages as much as I enjoy beer, I was enthralled with the Rose Lager.

It’s a light, and playful lager coming in at 5.2% ABV, which means it has the advantage of giving you that nice, quick buzz but won't be overbearing for the casual drinker. It has an initially semi-sweet taste that’s quickly followed by a tart, bitter bite.

It resembles a quality rose wine both in taste and color. Just perfect. I’d definitely recommend this lager to beer drinkers and connoisseurs of sweeter beverages as well. Thankfully, it’s now being canned. 4 packs of 16 oz cans are in Minnesotan liquor stores now. With summer right around the corner, it's perfect timing. This is definitely the perfect drink to sip on a warm summer day.