6 Outstanding Spring Beer Seasonals

I've never been one to strictly adhere to a seasonal beer schedule. That said, there are some exceptional beers that only come around seasonally. It's imperative to take advantage of their availability.

As I do live in one of the best craft beer producing areas of the world, my selections come primarily from the Pacific Northwest. That comes from two realities. I wouldn't want to offer an opinion on a beer I haven't tasted, and we have some very good world class beers. So of the six selected, four are from the Pacific Northwest, one is from Maryland and one is from California.

My six outstanding spring beer seasonal selections aren't in any order. The first is just as good as the last.

Glissade Golden Bock
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co., Chico, Calif.

Brewed in the Bock tradition, Glissade is a bit more mellow than many. With a honey golden color, it looks like the very essence of spring. It's subtle, but still with some excellent spicy notes from the European hops. Tempered with some floral scents, it's a smooth and easy drink for when your palate favors a lighter touch.

Dead Guy Ale
Rogue Brewery, Newport, Ore.

Sure, Dead Guy Ale is available year round, but it is brewed in the Spring Maibock tradition. With a deeper copper color and a strong malty scent, Dead Guy Ale gets your attention. It uses their proprietary Pacman yeast. Although I'm not sure what it does to the flavor, Rogue Brewery is certainly doing something right with Dead Guy Ale. After the rich flavor draws you in, the well-balanced finish satisfies.

Cinder Cone Red
Deschutes Brewery, Bend, Ore.

Named for the red cinders that begin peeking through the snow on Cinder Cone Butte in the summer, Cinder Cone Red is fast becoming an equally sure sign of spring for fans. Pours a nice copper color with red hues, a slight head, with a hoppy aroma hinting at pepper or spice. A smooth drink with a clean finish,

Garde Dog Biere De Garde
Flying Dog Brewery, Frederick, Md.

Made in the French/Belgian style, Garde Dog Biere De Garde has the expected nose. A slightly cloudy honey color with good head, it's got a creamy feel that is still crisp. Hints of citrus and spice contribute to a smooth taste that drinks easily.

Pyramid Outburst Imperial IPA
Pyramid Breweries, Seattle

One of the best Pyramid offerings in awhile, Pyramid Outburst Imperial IPA excels. A nice citrus and pine aroma raise high expectations for flavor, and the beer delivers. The hops stand out, but just barely over the maltiness. Light, crisp and smooth, it is very drinkable.

Full Sail LTD 05
Full Sail Brewing Co., Hood River, Ore.

A limited edition amber lager, Full Sail LTD 05 is dark amber but is very clear. It begins with a nose of maltiness that hints maybe of bread, coffee and caramel. A hearty taste with just a bit of citrus, it's a very drinkable beer. When you finish one, you are sure you want more. Smooth finish with a slightly hoppy end.

With so many amazing beers to choose from, it's hard to narrow a list down to just five. The brews mentioned I found to be rewarding and worth the effort to find. Happy drinking!