Beer Log 2: Grolsch Premium Lager

I discovered Grolsch around a month ago. I was very skeptical at it's quality at first. For some reason the green bottles always make me shutter in thoughts of drinking a Heiniken, back before my beer pallet had really established itself. Needless to say I was definitely not a fan...then again my "beer" or choice was a Bud Ice Light....colored water in retrospect..so perhaps I need to revisit the Heineken now. At any rate, back to the Grolsch Experience. It poured smoothly with a very small head which was quick to disperse. Color does not stray from the average Lager, pale in nature, however with a slight amber shade. Doesn't appear overly bubbly. Flavor is moderately hopsy and has definate fullness and complexity. Beer has a very slight "skunk" smell to it...however it is not overpowering or strong enough to make someone sit it down. Although the flavor is very full, Grolsch is very drinkable rather then some beers which I would rather sip. I must commend the Dutch for this beer. It is a somewhat average lager...but it does maintain a certain complex flavor while maintaining smooth drinkability. My favorite aspect about this beer has to be the bottle. My Grolsch I am partaking of is a 1pt. Ceramic swing top. I LOVE...LOVE...the design of this bottle so simple, and fun. I probably spent a good hour piddling with the swing top in admiration of someone's simple yet amazing design. The alcohol content comes in at 5 which I find pretty average. However some might consider this on the higher end. I'm used to Belgium Ale's which average around 8. There is a slight aftertaste but it is not unpleasant. I probably won't make this beer a staple in my fridge, however I can see picking one up on occasion as an alternative the Belgium Ale's I enjoy so much.

Beer Log 1: Baltika number 9 extra lager

Discovered Baltika in a local grocery store. This appears to be brewed in Russia and is called a "Extra Lager" Packaging seemed overly simple and almost cheapened the look of the beer. It has a very "malt licka" look. Fortunately I noticed that it was indeed an import from Russia. It bottling is the standard Pint. Not much head upon pouring, almost non existent really. It maintains a dirty pale yellow in color, very bubbly. Taste is very crisp and clean. Not overly hopsy. Very mild if any aftertaste. Has a very minor sweetness to the taste and smell. No overpowering tastes or bitterness of any kind. It has a alcohol content of 8% which gives the beer a heavier feel. High alcohol content creeps up on you. I'd say this is a very nice Lager which I wouldn't mind having another of. Clean, crisp, and powerful. might be good to drink this one with some snacks. Unless you like headaches in the morning.