Brewer Q & A (Issue 22)

95 Rating – Summit Brewing Co. – Sticke Alt

Responses from Summit brewer Mike Lundell.

Who came up with this beer's recipe?
I came up with this beer’s recipe.

What’s your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
I think the finish is my favorite. The aroma and flavor are great, but the clean, crisp finish really makes me smile!

Where does this beer’s name come from?
Dusseldorf, Germany! It’s a ‘seasonal’ Altbier, released in secret (Sticke) as a special offering to the public.

Is this your "desert island beer?"
I’m not sure if it's my first choice, but I sure wouldn’t be upset if it was the only thing I could drink!

Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Malty and bready with a dry, earthy finish. Yummy!

Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?                        
Summit produced an Altbier as a fall seasonal up until about 2001 or so, and I really enjoyed it. Knowing I was up for an Unchained Series release, I decided to make an Altbbier, but not our old recipe. Sticke Alts are beer the brewer customizes, usually maltier and hoppier than the standard Alt beer, and that really appealed to me.