Image Image Image Image Image Image Image Image Image Image
Scroll to top

Top

No Comments

Scorched Earth Brewing | Hickster

Scorched Earth Brewing | Hickster
Mike Wronski

ABV: 4.8% | IBU: 14

After pinballing through Chicago Craft Beer Week, my liver was in need of some time off. I obliged for about a week before the amazing weather we’ve been having eroded my willpower. However, I compromised, and vowed to drink only beers that were less than 5% ABV. It’s more fitting for 80 degree weather anyway and, frankly, I’m a little worn out on 7%+ IPAs. Thankfully, CCBW reintroduced all the beer styles I haven’t visited in awhile, which granted me plenty of options. One of these stuck out, and I’m pretty sure it will be a consistent 6-pack in my fridge this summer — Scorched Earth’s Hickster.

Scorched Earth Brewing (see their brewery showcase here!) is located in Algonquin, IL, which straddles the border between the Chicago-Metro area and endless rows of corn. Hence the inspiration for their American Cream Ale, Hickster. A little hip and a little hick, this beer isn’t just for those wearing skin-tight overalls or driving an electric pick-up truck. Rather, it satisfies both ends of the spectrum with attributes each can appreciate: it makes for a great partner at a burger cookout, and also providing plenty of complexity to fuss over. And at 4.8%, it’s incredibly easy drinking.

(MORE: Brewery Showcase | Scorched Earth Brewing Company)

This beer is great for backyard or front porch drinking, pouring a slightly hazy straw-color. A thick, white head rests on top, and the aroma is sweet and malty with a slight hint of corn. A bit of floral hops show up on  nose, but the creamy malt is the centerpiece here. Hickster drinks clean and smooth, with notes of toast and a subdued corn sweetness. It finishes dry and begs for another sip. Although this beer endures quite a few comparisons to another flagship Cream Ale from our neighbors to the north, Hickster truly stands on its own.

I’ll be finding as many opportunities as I can this summer to grab my ethically-sourced, gluten-free cowboy hat and a Hickster Cream Ale for some backyard drinking. And if all goes accordingly, I’ll get a free-range farmer’s tan to go with it.

 

Header photo courtesy of Scorched Earth Brewing


Can't visit the site everyday like us? Bummer! No worries, we've got you covered. Submit your email below to receive our monthlyish newsletter on reviews, tours, events and more!

Submit a Comment

14 − 8 =