Samuel Adams Hallertau Imperial Pilsner
• Boston Beer Co., Boston
• $9.99/four-pack at select metro beverage stores.

(ENLARGE)

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• Profile: Samuel Adams introduced a limited edition of its Imperial Pilsner in 22-ounce bottles back in 2005. The 2007 model is a very similar brew, but this time it comes in 12-ounce four-packs, with new label art. Unlike most American craft beer hop bombs — which are usually jacked up with copious amounts of Columbus, Centennial, Cascade and other Pacific Northwest high-alpha-acid varieties — it features the Hallertau Mittelfruh variety, grown in Bavaria. The result is a murky, earthy beer, with a profusion of hop aroma and flavor, spicy notes and some malty sweetness.

• Pair with: Samuel Adams suggests pairing Hallertau Imperial Pilsner with rich, creamy dishes, such as beef stroganoff or grilled steak with mushroom sauce, or roasted meats, such as osso bucco. Or try it with robust cheeses, such as Roquefort, aged Gouda or Camembert.