#010: Ithaca Beer Co. - Excelsior! Anniversary Fifteen (Dark Rye Ale)

Ithaca Beer's Excelsior! series returns... couldn't wait a day to break into this one.

The Brewery: Ithaca Beer, Co. (Ithaca, NY)
The Brew: Excelsior! Anniversary 15 (Dark Rye Ale)
Availability: Draft and bottles
ABV: 8.4%
Rating: 8/10
Location: Home

The Story? Back in 2008, Ithaca Beer Company celebrated their Tenth anniversary with the release of TEN, the first in a new series under the moniker of Excelsior!. Since then, the series has been home to the brewery's best brews, including the legendary Le Bleu. The anniversary releases from the series are always enjoyable - their 14 Hoppy Black Ale frequented my pallet last year (one bottle remains) and was part of the best black & tan I've ever had (with Excelsior! White Gold).

Next up is Fifteen, the first anniversary ale from their new brewery / taproom which is co-released with the latest batch of Old Habit as the first two Excelsior! releases since the new build/move. Inspired by the Rye Ales of southern Germany.

The Beer? Robust, creamy head with plenty of legs as can be seen from the pick. The beer itself is very smooth and silky on first sip... dry and hoppy through the next few pulls. Some ryes hold to the bitter, hard hoppy side of things, but this has a very pleasant mouthfeel and easy down.

A bit of booze on the finish starts to appear after several gulps along with malt and clove. A very sturdy rye ale. The spice really begins to build the further we trek through this dark-copper ale. Dry clove coats the tongue, while booze and fruit begin to build, reminiscent of some of old ales and barelywines. A slow, deep brew.

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