ELYSE GRIECO
Life & Arts Editor
Like so many of my predecessors, I will admit I’m not a beer connoisseur.
In fact, if I’m being completely honest, my knowledge of beer doesn’t even come close to an expert level.
But there’s one thing I knew for sure.
After joining The Leader when I was 19 years old, I was determined to make sure the minute I turned 21 I wrote a “Brews Under Review” column.
So, accompanied by my friend and fellow colleague, Travis LeFevre, I set out for my excursion to EBC West to do just this and enjoy my first legal beer.
We arrived to EBC on Saturday afternoon, the bar less busy than usual.
I noticed the Sabres vs. Capitals game on the TV above me. The score was 2-0 with the Sabres in the lead; it was truly a day filled with firsts.
I gazed over the selection of craft beers on tab. One flavor stuck out right away . . . blueberry maple pancake.
I was mesmerized by the idea that a beverage so commonly frowned upon drinking before noon could mimic the taste of one of the most classic breakfast foods known to man.
It was contradicting, it was interesting and I knew I had to try it.
As the bartender poured my drink, I noticed the beer’s coloring. It was a mixture between red and brown, almost resembling the color of syrup.
This beer has caused quite the uproar on social media, and after tasting it, I could tell why.
When I took my first sip, I was impressed with how smooth my drink was.
I know I said I’m not an expert, but I can definitely tell the difference between a beer that’s easy to drink compared to one that’s not.
The maple blueberry beer has a clean and crisp flavor.
I’m not the biggest fan of blueberries, but the taste was so subtle even I found it delicious.
All of these components worked together to make a stellar beer, but my favorite part of the experience may have been what happened after I drank it.
At first, I was confused as to why this beer included maple in its title.
But a few seconds after I took a sip, I started to taste the maple sensation. This aftertaste was long lasting and satisfied what I was looking for.
Overall, I would say my experience drinking this beer did not let me down.
It was light, full of taste and didn’t upset my stomach like many other brews tend to do. Not once did I get sick of the taste.
If you find yourself at EBC anytime soon, don’t be reluctant to try this beer. It’s the perfect mixture of everything you love about Sunday morning brunch that you can enjoy on Saturday night.
Overall rating: 4.5/5