The world is getting smaller.  With the advent of the internet, the smart phone, and the carrier pigeon information can be accessed anytime and anywhere.  The ability to communicate with anyone, regardless of distance, has created an opportunity for cross country collaboration. 

Two of America’s most famous craft breweries happen to be located on opposite coasts.  Three thousand miles didn’t stop Chico, California’s Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and Milton, Delaware’s Dogfish Head from brewing a collaboration beer.  Life & Limb is classified as an American Strong Ale, for lack of a better description, and is brewed with maple syrup from Dogfish Head President Sam Calagione’s family farm and barley grown on Sierra Nevada’s estate. 

Appearance
Pours a dark brown on par with cola.  A pillowy light tan head comes to rest atop the brew.  Head retention is is good and lacing is adequate.

Aroma
Sweet smells of caramel, molasses, and syrup reflect the usage of roasted malts and, well, maple syrup.  Dark fruit is also present in the form of fig and raisin.  A bit of earthiness and woodiness can also be detected.  Cutting through it all is the 10% ABV; present but not overpowering.

Taste
Malty with caramel, a touch of coffee, and just a wisp of chocolate.  Dark fruits are there as is a breadiness and spice that when combined with syrup notes is vaguely reminiscent of french toast.  Finish is dominated by alcohol, perhaps a bit too much.

Mouthfeel
A chewy full bodied beer.  Slightly heavy and creamy in the mouth.  Carbonation is medium and alcohol is warming.

Drinkability
Complex beer with several layers of flavor.  Syrup from the east coast, barley from the west, and a combination of yeast from both results is a unique flavor profile and a beer that is appealing on the eye and in the nose.  One pint packs enough alcohol to blur your vision but the high ABV takes away a little from the beer as a whole.  Overall grade for Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head’s Life & Limb: B+


Sierra Nevada and Dogfish Head Life & Limb

Up next on Tuesday Tasting: Lucky Hand Brewing Black Lager