There’s a sea of wheat and a long highway when you head to the ‘Current. Saskatchewan is a place of history and old world methods. But it’s also a place of old world superstition. The Black Bridge is a well-known landmark near the town of Swift Current, and when Clayton and Kari Stenson took their home brewing operation up a notch to full-time, they decided to name it after a place rich in stories of ghosts, history, childhood adventure, and tradition. Black Bridge Brewery has some of its own ghost stories and history, along with long nights getting brews off the line and into the hands of thirsty beer lovers. Four year-round beers and a handful of seasonal offerings populate their slate. The Steaks Are High is a session IPA with low alcohol and hoppiness for dynamic flavour. Perfect for the lunchtime pint before heading back to work or for grilling on the BBQ in the backyard. Serves well at 8°C and should be enjoyed promptly.
Pours a pale yellow colour with a clear body and medium carbonation. A frothy head of foam out of the can quickly recedes to a thin layer of bubbles on the top of the glass.
Strong hops almost overpower everything else in the aroma. The hops are piney and fresh, but deep behind them you can pick up some floral, perfume aroma.
Taste follows the nose - the strong hops are front and center, picking up steam as it warms on the palate. The hops are mostly pine resin and sharp, but the hint of floral quality is still floating around in the background. The mouthfeel is fairly smooth but trends off toward a dry finish. It’s tough to catch much else but the hops in this beer, so definitely have it with some food for a rounded out experience.
Dig into a grilled cheeseburger with bacon and hand-cut steak fries. Then take a nap.