Skinny Dip...Arm In Arm With An American Blonde

Skinny Dip Beer
American Blonde Ale
ABV: 4.2%
New Belgium Brewing
Ft. Collins, Colorado

http://www.newbelgium.com/

"New Belgium’s Skinny Dip started out as a challenge from our founder Jeff to brewmaster, Peter Bouckaert. Jeff was looking for a full-bodied, highly drinkable beer for after workouts - something a little lighter than the rest of the portfolio. Peter, a Belgian, responded: “Only in America would I be asked to brew a beer with no calories and less alcohol.” The challenge was to give the beer body and complexity not usually found in beers at the lighter end of the spectrum. Cascade hops frolic with a hint of lime leaf, making Skinny Dip a bright, refreshing splash for the summer season."--from New Belgium's website

Skinny Dip is New Belgium's toast to a summer weekend. Since there is a nice, warm, August weekend on tap here in Denver, I thought it would be the perfect beer to wander through.

Appearance--This brew has a nice amber color, but I was a little disappointed that its off white head pulled a quick disappearing act.

Smell--The aroma is subdued. Malty? yes, but I also smelled the hops that are blended into it and some citrus, too.

Taste--Like its aroma, Skinny Dip does not over power you. The flavor is mildly hoppy and a little citrusy at first, and I taste that familiar malty flavor, a very pleasant bread and biscuits flavor, too.

Overall--Skinny Dip is a quiet beer. The bottle says it is a full bodied beer, but I disagree. To me, it's more of a light to medium brew. It might be a little laid back for you, but on a hot summer afternoon, it's a perfect fit.

Bottom Line--Go search YouTube for the song "Summertime." Grab Sam Cooke's classic version. He is singing Skinny Dip's theme song.

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Speaking of the New Belgium Brewery. They will soon have the largest solar set up in Colorado. Click HERE for the full story from my friends at The Full Pint.


On Tap This Weekend:
Saturday, 8/22
Join Breckenridge, Bristol, Left Hand, Odell's, Oscar Blues, Palisade, Pyramid and Steamworks Breweries for the Ale House Beer Festival. All in the Back Yard of the Breckenridge Ale House in Grand Junction, CO this Saturday. All to benefit the American Cancer Society. $20 per person for unlimited tastings. Breckenridge Ale House 2531 N 12th Street Grand Junction, CO

All Weekend
New Belgium's Tour de Fat invades Boise this weekend. Saddle 'em up, Idaho!