$8.48 per six-pack
The Tommyknocker Brewery in the old mining town of Idaho Springs has been turning out its craft brews since 1994 and boasts a dozen beers — not bad for a microbrewery whose total 2008 output was 9,000 barrels. Alpine Glacier rolls down out of the mountains as a cool, light refresher that’s perfect for a summer afternoon. It’s a clear, golden lager that pours with a thin, white head that dissipates quickly and leaves little to no lacing. Sweet malt and citrus are strong on the nose; the scent is similar to that of a wheat beer. The flavor is of light caramel and the aforementioned malt, with a wet mouthfeel and easy drinkability, enhanced by a session-friendly 4.5 percent alcohol by volume. This is a fine lager to serve as an introduction to craft brewing, and an enticing alternative to major-label beers. Tommyknocker Brewery, Idaho Springs;
Marcus Chamberland
