Can we get a round of applause for Blood Brothers Brewing, and their deliciously juicy beers? They are one of my favourite Toronto craft breweries. I’m always pleased with my taproom experience, and I love that they have adopted the 355 ml can format.
We ended up at Blood Brothers a few weeks ago. We actually tried going to Halo Brewery that day, but they were at capacity during their oyster pop up. Blood Brothers is only about a 20 minute walk away, so we headed there instead – and got distracted by the smell of pizza when we walked by The Greater Good as soon as we turned onto Geary Avenue. I mean seriously, have you had the pizza at North of Brooklyn Pizza, the pizza place located inside of The Greater Good? It’s really exactly what you need when you’re hangry and about to bend your elbow a few times.
A 4 pack of Toad of Light will set you back $12. It’s everything you need on a Tuesday night when your dog has tried to chase cars throughout your walk, and you’re feeling kind of tired. Not as complex as some of the sours and hop bombs Blood Brothers makes, this one is a great option to bring along to a leisurely Saturday afternoon BBQ with friends, when you don’t have to drive but you don’t want to get sloppy. Clocking in at just 4.5% ABV, this is a light beer wearing its big girl pants.
Appearance: Medium straw with orange notes. Long lasting frothy white head. Unfiltered and hazy.
Aroma: Mango, fresh cut grass, pizza dough, tangerines.
Taste: Juicy citrus explosion of orange, lemon, lime, and tangerines. The website lists Citra hops in the description and wham you can really taste it. Very smooth mouth feel from the mix of flaked oats and wheat in the mash.
Aftertaste: Lingering bitterness, freshly cut grass.
Suggested food pairing: Ceviche made with delicate scallops. The texture works with finer seafood and the juicy citrus flavours would pair well with a fairly acidic dish.
Overall: This is a solid option for someone looking for a full flavour pale ale without going overboard on the alcohol content. I’d like to see this as a permanent rotation, especially during the summer months where my tolerance is non-existent.
Shawna has visited vineyards in 8 countries on 3 continents, and has a knack for finding the hoppiest beers around. A dedicated Booze Hound, Shawna completed the Wine Specialist Certificate at George Brown College in 2018.
She can be found drinking alka-seltzer and coconut water in the morning.
Email: [email protected]
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