• Dan Olds
• On August 12, 2015

ABV: 5.1%
IBU: 18

When I was a kid I wanted to be a fireman. I was going to have a Dalmatian, extinguish fires, rescue cats from trees, and most importantly drive the big red fire engine. As I grew older my thoughts changed to other careers, but in the back of my mind I still had the picture of my childhood dream. Although becoming a firefighter now is far from reality, I still support the brave men and women who put their lives on the line every day.

This past week I supported them by drinking beer. Dry Dock Brewing Co. released their second annual Big John Ale to help raise money towards restoration of the Big John fire engine in Aurora, CO. Last year’s ale was an amazing 11.5% sweet tea double IPA. This year’s beer continued the trend of greatness with a smoked beer that could easily be enjoyed next to a smoking pig roast to celebrate the end of summer. The delicious concoction of smoked aroma and malty base has a beautiful red/copper color and is easily drinkable at 5.1% ABV. The aroma gives off a delightful smoky smell that reminds me of cooking breakfast around a campfire. The flavor is a good balance of malt in conjunction with a cherry smoke finish that would pair well with any summer cookout.

Soon the seasons will change. Leaves will fall from trees and nights will become cooler. Weekends will be filled with football games and everyone will be dressed in their favorite warm hoodies. Summer is not quite over yet so there is plenty of time for memorable camping trips and endless summer cookouts. I will be enjoying them with a Big John Ale and toasting to the firefighters who risk their lives every day for the safety of citizens and craft beer enthusiasts everywhere!