Three Floyds Alpha King

American Pale Ale 6% abv

One good thing that came out of my business trip to Indiana was the chance to pick up some beers made by Three Floyds Brewing. I've heard and read plenty about this brewery but this is the first chance I've had to get my hands on some.
This is billed as an American Pale Ale, but let me tell you, this will give most IPA's and some DIPA's a run for their money when it comes to hoppiness. That said it is balanced with enough malt to keep it from being overly bitter. The color and appearance were most impressive and the aroma and flavor were both citrusy and hoppy. It was like drinking a thin syrupy beer with a grapefruit-piney taste. If you like hoppy this one is sure to satisfy the palate.
Only downer is I could only find this in the coolers of the party store. Wish I could pick up a warm sixer or two to keep down in the basement for a few months.

King Hard Tail Ale

A Pale Ale from
King Brewing Company - Pontiac, MI

This flavorful local offering comes from the mean streets of Caeser Chavez Blvd in northern Pontiac. While you can find sixers of this at the odd party store here and there, I decided to go straight to the source for my purchase. Sadly it was during work hours so I couldn't cozy up to the bar and sample everything. A fresh six pack from the cooler will have to do.
For an American style pale ale it stands up pretty well as it has a hoppier aroma and flavor than many others in its class. More towards a flowery hoppiness without any real citrus tones. It has a nice solid amber color but very little carbonation to go with it. It's still refreshing, but just needs a little more bubbly to make it an all-around great brew. I'm sure a pint at the brewpub would be a safer bet to have the right balance. Guess I just gave myself a research related reason to return.