Shmaltz Brewing Company - Bittersweet Lenny's R.I.P.A.

This World Beer Championships Gold Medal winner was created to honor Jewish comedian Lenny Bruce, and what a memorable tribute it is. Presenting a deep amber-red color topped with plenty of creamy foam, it's really quite striking in the glass. Look for a complex aroma on this bad boy, including ripe and candied fruits such as citrus, berry, and stone fruit, plus spicy notes of rye and baking spices, sticky pine, and a powerful undercurrent of deep caramel. The bold theme continues on the palate, which is super big in both the malt and hop departments. A huge malt core offers tons of spicy rye and caramel while 86 IBUs and a touch of alcohol (which builds as the beer warms in the glass) cut through the structure of this full-bodied double IPA. Seven different hop varieties add multiple layers of complexity including spice, pine resin, and citrus zest. Big, bold, and absolutely packed to the gills with flavor, this brew needs only a clean glass to shine, especially as a digestif after a hearty meal. However, pairings are certainly possible as long as the food can stand up to the beer. A sampler plate of strong, aged cheeses is a natural accompaniment, as well as other creamy or fatty foods. Pork belly with a sweet maple glaze would be high on our list of cuisine to try. Additionally, a snack of chile or other spice infused chocolates should also make a fun pairing. L'Chaim!

Though it’s clear Shmaltz approaches their marketing with tongue firmly planted in cheek, make no mistake, that’s where the joke ends; the beers themselves are the real deal, well-crafted by creative brewers whose passion is apparent with each sip.

The idea for He’Brew beers began one night in 1987, when founder Jeremy Cowan and friends were drinking and brainstorming wild ideas for Jewish-themed products. It was then that the idea was born for a Kosher, high holy days celebratory brew to be called “He’Brew,” and boasting the slogan “Don’t Pass Out, Passover!” In 1996, the dream became a reality; Cowan brewed up his first commercial batch of He’Brew Genesis Ale for that year’s Hanukah celebration. After selling all one hundred cases of Genesis Ale out of the trunk of his grandmother’s Volvo, he decided the next year to quit his day job and focus his energy into building the innovative brewing company that stands before us today. After having partnered for many years with Olde Saratoga Brewing Co. to produce the He’Brew line, Shmaltz took the plunge and opened their very own brewery in 2013. To learn more about Shmaltz and their He’Brew brand of beers, visit www.shmaltzbrewing.com.