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Beer of the Month: April
Boomtown
A
MCF: Free Rock Show Saturday, April 8 at 2 p.m. Big Grove Brewery & Taproom, Iowa City
pril marks the beginning of my favorite pastime: lawn mowing. Though I love baseball (another great pastime that begins its long season in April), lawn mowing has a special place in my heart. My first (though unofficial) job was being the neighborhood lawn boy. I spent many summer days guiding my dad’s lawn mower around neighbors’ yards—some of which included doomed toys hidden in the tall turf. Mowing can be hot and sweaty work, but it is something I enjoy. I love the smell of freshly cut grass, the steady pace and the peace provided by the constant noise of the engine, which allows me to fall into a state of meditation—complete with green stains on an old pair of running shoes and grass clippings stuck in the hair on my arms and legs. (You know it’s sexy!) In commemoration of the long mowing season ahead, I am recommending Big Grove Brewery’s “lawn-mowin’ beer”: Boomtown. The color is a clear, clean light straw. A finger of buttery, beige, bubble-spotted head will leave a bubbly and broken skim and a ring around the edge. The aroma is light but sweet, grassy (fittingly) and floral. Corn is also noticeable. Though Boomtown may smell like a domestic lager, it does not taste like one; it has much more bite and flavor. Boomtown’s flavor is also grassy and floral and features a pleasing spice and bitterness that latches on to the taste buds. It has hints of citrus and light fruit, such as apple and strawberry. Alcohol Content: 4.5 percent ABV. Food pairings: Josh Seiler, Big Grove’s director of brewing operations, says Boomtown goes well with yellow curry with paneer, burgers and chicken wings. It pairs well with spicy dishes because it will complement and slightly subdue the spice. Where to buy: Boomtown is available on tap at Big Grove’s locations in Solon (101 W Main St, Solon) and Iowa City (1225 S Gilbert St, Iowa City). Price: $5 for a 16-ounce pint and $14 for a 64-ounce growler fill. ––Casey Wagner
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Photo by Jordan Sellergren
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