Beer Talk

Copperhead Ale

Published July 2008, Volume 29, Number 3

Fordham Brewing Co.
Dover, DE

Available: n/a

Copperhead is an American interpretation of a Düsseldorf altbier.

ABV: n/a
ABW: n/a
Color: n/a
Bitterness: n/a
Original gravity: n/a

  • Charlie Papazian

    Beautiful shiny coppered ale. Ale fruitiness mingled with honey-floral aromas. Acidic flavor with hints of metallic character and lingering astringent mouthfeel. High in bitterness reminiscent of more assertively hopped altbiers of Germany. Malt sweetness is low and overwhelmed with hop bitterness. Could be a reasonable accompaniment with strong flavored and high fat foods such as pizza. In summary, the level of sourness/acidity is not my preference when accompanied with intense bitterness. So I will admit my bias.

  • Jeff Evans

    Here’s a beer in the alt fashion, an ale that has its fruity wings clipped by a period of cold conditioning. Copperhead — clearly named for its color — has a rich aroma of ripe barley, delicate hop resins and plenty of creamy caramel. It’s malty and nutty on the palate, yet crisp and bitter at the same time, with just a suggestion of orange blossom, while the finish is dry, nutty and bitter with roasted malt poking through. It all ends somewhat abruptly, leaving you wanting a little bit more, but that’s part of the appeal of this style of beer.

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