Beer Review: Smithwick's Irish Ale

Overall (5.1/10) - Smithwick's is a heavily carbonated beer with a powerful, almost fruity-like, front end bitterness and mild finish. It is a good "ball-game" beer that isn't too heavy, but due to it's heavy carbonation is better for sipping than guzzling. Smithwick's is a notch above the standard American Ale (Budweizer).

Appearance (1.0/2.0) - Smithwick's has very little head which dissipates quickly. It has a dark, almost red, amber color.

Smell (1.2/2.0) - Floral and very mild.

Taste (1.8/4.0) - The front end taste is heavily carbonated, mildly fruity, and very hoppy. The bitterness of the hops does not linger leaving the back end flavors quite smooth. Smithwick's kind of reminds me of a well done mass produced American Ale.

Mouth Feel (1.1/2.0) - Drinking Smithwick's is dominated by its carbonation. After the carbonation dissipates there is no lingering texture or burn. Smithwick's is surprisingly smooth and doesn't leave the burning sensation found in other carbonated beverages.

Pairing - Due to the beer's strong front end, heavy carbonation, and quick finish Smithwick's is a good pallet cleanser. An ideal meal would be a thick salmon filet served with a side of garlic mashed potatoes.