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The more we dive into New Belgium's selections, the more flabbergasted we become at the popularity of Fat Tire. Sure, we've said ourselves that Fat Tire serves as an entry beer to the other offerings New Belgium brews. If conventional wisdom says that you only get one chance to make a good first impression, then Fat Tire would seem like the wrong entry point for New Belgium.
The days are getting shorter, which means we're looking for some spice in our brews. New Belgium's 2 Below Winter Ale is a wonderful option. What sets 2 Below apart from other winter ale selections, for us, is the dry hopping during fermentation. This brightens the floral aroma and esters on the nose, and brings a sharp bite of white pepper on the palate. At 6.6 percent alcohol, it also provides the illusion of keeping you warm. This is a great sipping beer, although we sampled it in the midst of a trying day and pounded it back, instead.
By now New Belgium is fairly ubiquitous on store shelves. If you can't find 2 Below at an Osco, CVS, Dominick's, or even Sam's or Binny's, you aren't trying. Seek it out, nonetheless. New Belgium 2 Below is Chicagoist's "Beer of the Week."
Image via New Belgium Brewery website.
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Thanks for the recommendation, Chuck.
I was at an open bar sponsored by New Belgium last week, and worked my way through Fat Tire, Mothership Wit, 1554, and 2 Below. This beer was my favorite by a large margin. Good stuff.
Ooh! yes, thanks for the recommendation, Chuck. i've wondered if it were just me that was simply unimpressed with Fat Tire, but now i know there is someone else!
My blasé nature with Fat Tire goes way back. Thankfully the brewery reps I've talked with over the years are understanding about it, and that New Belgium makes some selections that are worth the price.
good stuff...i'd still like to see their Blue Paddle and Sunshine Wheat in the market...the wheat especially is a fantastic beer.