Samuel Adams Boston Lager

Sometimes, when reviewing and checking out craft beers, the standards get overlooked. Why drink some ol' lager when you can have a Elderberry Sour IPA Stout Pumpkin Kölsch? But the basic lagers and amber ales are worth our time as well. Sam Adams' variety packs always include a couple of bottles of Boston Lager, so I'm starting off the reviews with the same.

Although they don't promote it as such, the style is definitely what's referred to as a Vienna Lager. The Vienna style originated in that Austrian city, but you'll find many examples among Mexican beers such as Negra Modelo and Dos Equis. Sam Adams Boston Lager, is a great example of the style. Pouring a light amber with a short off-white head, the overall effect is a mild malty sweetness, rather than the crisp cleanness of a Pilsner. The hoppiness is subdued at 30 IBUs, and there is a caramel aroma mixed with a breadiness that makes this more complex than most lagers. This is a great year-round beer and can be enjoyed with a variety of foods like burgers, fried chicken or even bruschetta. An IGB favorite.