Reviewed by Ken Carman

From Opa’s website…

Opa Opa Red Rock
A blend of German vienna malt and English crystal malts create this malty and slightly fruity beer. Sweet caramel flavors give way to a surprisingly soft and smooth finish.

Sorry, no pictures for now: a tech glitch. In a few days I may be able to add some “color” to this profile. Blame it on the computer at this library.

I interviewed the brewer a few years ago and enjoyed both the interview and the beer. I thought a little distance; time-wise, might bring a new perspective. This is a brewpub on the northwest side of Springfield, Mass. area. It’s in Southampton.

I was impressed with the somewhat darker, a bit more dextrinous, approach to a red ale, though I’m not sure if this would score as well in some competitions as it should simply because it’s a bit off for that style. But who am I to question…

RED ROCK ALE- 2005 & 2007 Gold Medal Winner – Great International Beer Festival

Of course I’d have to taste it back then, compare it to now and consider any changes. Plus, compare it with the other entries and know what it was entered under. One writer on this site claims to have a time machine. Interested in renting it out, Scribe? I didn’t notice any “fruit sense,” just a nicely carbonated for the style where the malts seem to cling to the roof of the mouth a bit. I would also disagree: a bit less caramel and more depth to the malt in a slightly darher sense. Very much balanced towards the malt. Hopheads best look to other Opas, like the ESB. Hops are so subtle in Red Rock there’s not a lot to mention. From a growler purchased by a friend.

The color is right: areal nice red.

A very pleasant beverage.