Toasted Lager

Since launching its Toasted Lager from a direct-flame fired kettle in 1998, Blue Point has grown into a regional powerhouse, producing 30,000 barrels a year of uniquely flavored beers. Direct firing produces toast and caramel notes, which are star players in the flagship Toasted Lager. Woven through the toasty malt aromas are notes of clover honey, lightly spicy hops, and hints of Anjou pears. Tom found the aroma reminiscent of “oatmeal spice cookies” with just a whiff of creamery butter wafting over the top. Brilliantly clear and filling the glass with a soft, lambent golden glow, this brew wears a velvety, pure white foam crown that lasts to the very end. As suggested by its name, Toasted Lager boasts a rich, toasted maltiness right up front, with just enough hop bitterness to balance after the initial malt blitz. Pushing aside the overt toasty base notes, Pete pulled out some “earthy, almost woody hop” flavors hidden among grainy, graham cracker malt. As the malt receded, Pete found a “slightly harsh, bitter edge to the finish.” Tim deemed the beer “exceptionally balanced for such a malt forward style,” lauding the seamless integration of caramel, toast, spicy hops and fruity esters. A distinctly American tipple, Toasted Lager is just the ticket for a day at the beach, especially if that beach is on the South Shore.