Sweet Water LowRYEder IPA

For my first review, I am starting with a brewery located in my hometown - Atlanta, GA.  SweetWater Brewery (www.sweetwaterbrew.com) is a brewery that truly lives by its motto "Don't Float the Mainstream".  I became acquainted with SweetWater beer in college at the University of Georgia.  We would often drive into Atlanta on Thursday afternoons to enjoy their patio, live music and SweetWater brews.  

Their 420 Extra Pale Ale is one of my "go to" beers for any meal or occasion.  In fact, before they started distributing in North Carolina, I had to pick it up over the boarder so I could enjoy it at home.  I have also enjoyed SweetWater's Motor Boat, Georgia Brown, Happy Ending, and Festive Ale. I am not a big fan of SweetWater Blue, which possesses a slight blueberry aroma and taste to it - much too sweet.  And, although I am typically a huge fan of IPA's, their IPA is just too sweet for me as well.  

This week, I had the opportunity to enjoy the newest addition to SweetWater's line-up, LowRYEder IPA.  I was hesitant to purchase this Rye IPA because I thought it would be too sweet like their regular IPA, but to my pleasant surprise the 25% shot of rye malt truly dialed in a smooth, hoppy and malty taste - definitely not too sweet.  Personally, I really enjoy when brewers substitute rye for barley.  Fall has definitely set into Charlotte, NC and this Rye-PA is a perfect afternoon brew to enjoy outdoors in the crisp afternoon weather.  Pick up a six pack and enjoy!