Rating System
(from best to worst)
Excellent, Outstanding, Very Good, Good, Above Average, Average, Below Average, Poor. Undrinkable
From Bottles to Growlers- beer reviews by SANDY FELD, certified taster
Orkney Dark Island

This Scottish Ale weighs in at 4.6%.  The nose brings a mix of
malt, toast and tea leaves.  Expect flavors of coffee, bitter
chocolate, raisins and toffee with a gentle brown sugar
sweetness. Finish brings mellow roasted coffee notes.  Close to a
Baltic porter but less complex. Drinkable and clean.

Overall rating:-  Good
Bear Republic Racer 5000

No, that's not a misprint.  It's Racer 5,000 a triple dry hopped
version of the popular Racer 5.  It's an American IPA at 7% ABV.  
Nice aroma of pineapple and other tropical fruits,  Flavor is very
citrus forward, featuring lemon, orange and grapefruit notes.  Some
sweet malt helps balance things as you approach the piney, citrus
hop finish with light bitterness. Well made.

Overall Rating - Very Good
Having sampled nearly 4,000 different beers in my
capacity as a fully certified taster I can promise
honest, thoughtful, and careful evaluations.  However,
remember that these reviews are totally subjective.  
Consider this column an informative resource only.  
The bottom line is to trust your own judgment and
keep drinking!  

Sandy
Beers Reviewed
Cricket Hill Hopnotic

This is an English style IPA (5.4%) so don't
expect a lot of hops.  You're greeted with
smells of citrus, orange, and light malt.
First sip brings lemon, baked bread, light
grapefruit, and grain notes.  Finish is crisp
with malt leading the way.  No flaws in this
beer but not for an American IPA fan.  The
Cricket Hill Simcoenotic IPA is far better.

Overall Rating: Average
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