North's US BeerFest

My drinking has had a distinctly American feel to it this week with North Bar bringing over baskets of US Beers for us to taste. And taste we did.
First up, Flying Dog's In Heat Wheat. This must be one of the few Flying Dog Ales I've not yet tried, to so get hold of it on draught was a great opportunity. Pleasantly refreshing without being cloying, it had a smooth, banana taste at first that soon mellowed even further, leaving a little bit of Marzipan behind. Very tasty, and very moreish. Next up, the much-lauded Dogfish Head 75 Minute IPA - or 'Johnny Cask', as it's more commonly known (Click here to find out more about the Johnny Cask System). I really enjoyed this - yes, it was a blend of the 65 and 90 Minute IPA's so you kind of know what to expect - but still managed to become something different. Smooth, with only a little alcohol warmth at the end, and a balanced (although very fresh) hoppiness running through it. There's a real malty sweetness to it too, but it remains citrussy and not too cloying.

Victory Prima Pils next - although I have to be honest and say I didn't really think it was too Pils-y. It was decent though - lots of earthiness on the nose, and a high, astringent hop bite at the end of a long sip. Again, quite a fresh taste, although quite sweet. Interesting, and something I think I would try again; although I personally thought it had more in common with a Kolsch on steroids.
Sierra Nevada's Smoked Porter finished my week-long tasting, with a subtle smokiness and chocolate to coat the tongue. With a bottle of Rogue Dead Guy Ale waiting for me at home, I will continue my US-Centric drinking well into next week, I reckon.