When I first think of strong ales, I think about Belgian strong ales since that is what I am most familiar with. On a recent visit to Five.0.Five Brewing Company in Fremont, Nebraska, they had their American strong ale available in six-packs, so I was excited to bring one home and have more time to get to know this style!
Bit Thick does a great job representing the style, starting with the copper color. The first thing in my mind was that this would be a sweet, malty beer, but that is not the case. True to style, this beer is more hop-forward (50 IBUs) than malt-forward, even to the finish, which is more on the dry side. A slight warmth in this 8.2% ABV ale makes it an enjoyable way to wind down at night!
I enjoy all the classic types of craft beer that Five.0.Five creates! If you are up for an adventure, try their black and tan made with a Bit Thick and their Rugger Bugger stout.
Cheers!