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Monday, March 23, 2015

Beer Tasting: Aviator Red

I decided to end my St. Patrick's Day inspired week of Irish themed beer reviews with a local favorite, Aviator RedAviator Red is an Irish style red ale produced by Flying Bison Brewing Company.  I am admittedly biased, as Flying Bison Brewing Company is well known and respected here in Buffalo.  Having said that, Aviator Red does not require my bias to stand atop the best Irish style reds being produced.


Flying Bison Brewing Company moved locations late in 2014, and having been to the new facilities I can say that the drinking space is very awesome indeed.  Flying Bison Brewing Company now helps anchor a Larkin Square renaissance, and significant revitalization is taking place in the area.  The warehouse style building has ample seating and plenty of bar space.  You can overlook the beer production process while perched at the bar enjoying a pint of Rusty Chain, Buffalo IPA, or Blizzard Bock.  Look for a full review of Flying Bison Brewing Company in the near future.

Here is a picture of my Aviator Red:

Flying Bison Brewing Company: Aviator Red
ABV: 5.5%
Style: Irish Red Ale
Rating: #9 in style

Aviator Red poured a deep ruby to brown with a spirited head that laced down the pint glass.  The aroma of Aviator Red is predominantly caramel sweet malt with a touch of spice.  The taste of Aviator Red was as expected from an Irish style red ale with malt shining through.  Where I think Aviator Red excels is the blend of other flavors surrounding the malt character, including Kent Golding hops.  Kent Golding hops are medium alpha acid level and impart a floral flavor to Aviator Red.  The mouthfeel of Aviator Red is light and the carbonation level is on target.

Aviator Red is certainly malt-centric, but I found Aviator Red to be not as malty as other Irish red ales.  There is a unique balance achieved by Aviator Red; malt dominance is balanced exceptionally well with hop modesty.  The successful blend of malt and hops renders Aviator Red a highly drinkable beer that is accessible to all beer drinkers.

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