In a previous beer review, I mentioned how Michigan is currently going through what a lot of people like to reference as Third Winter. Mother Nature teased Michiganders with warmer temperatures and sunshine as March rolled in, but now we are back to colder temperatures, wind chills, and (ugh) snow.
During the winter, I enjoy drinking lighter beers in order to counterbalance the heavier Stouts I’m subjecting myself to. One of my favorite lighter beers from this winter was a Strata Lager, a collaboration beer two Traverse City area breweries – Earthen Ales and Farm Club.
I picked up a few cans of this beer during a very cold trip up to the Traverse City area. The collaboration actually took place at the end of 2021 and was available on draft right before the new year. It was placed in cans and available for sale by the time I got up there.
This beer was extremely drinkable coming in at 5%. It was bright on the front end with subtle notes of herb and lemon. The back end was when the dry hopped Strata hops kicked in. They gave this beer a dank, hoppy finish. I found it fitting that two breweries with earth-related names could come together and brew a beer with strong earthy tones on the finish.
I’m hoping more collaborations take place between Earthen Ales and Farm Club. This Pilsner was just what I was looking for as I wished for warmer temperatures and spring to finally arrive.
Both breweries are two Traverse City staples. Earthen Ales opened up right at the end of 2016 and is located in the Village of Grand Traverse Commons. Farm Club is newer to the craft beer scene on the Leelanau Peninsula and opened its doors during the pandemic in July 2020. Both offer excellent beers and each has it’s own unique vibe. Make sure you check out both when you visit Traverse City!
Cheers!
Disclaimer: Ed purchased this beer for review from Earthen Ales.
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