Earlier this month we had St. Patrick’s Day, one of the few “holidays” of the year that are not only beer-centric, but also devoted to a specific beer style. While some people might prefer Irish red, pale lager doused in green food coloring, or even whiskey, most people immediately associate St. Patty’s with Irish stouts. The most popular and well known Irish stout is definately Guinness, even a devoted local beer drinker like me thoroughly enjoyed a 4 pk of Guinness draught stout earlier this month. In addition to that Guinness I’ve also been sampling plenty of local takes on this classic beer style. A great example is Wake of the Medusa, a dry Irish stout from Medusa Brewing Company. Medusa Brewing Wake of the Medusa is brewed with Bramling Cross hops and loads of roasted malt, and is available in the early spring on draft and in 16 oz cans.
Medusa Wake of the Medusa pours nearly black with a solid tan head. The aroma showcases the rich roasted malts used to brew this beer. These dark malts also lead the flavor, notes of bittersweet chocolate, caramel and tobacco. This is balanced by a touch of hops, herbal with a little late bitterness. Wake of the Medusa is medium bodied, very easy drinking and sessionable at 4.2% ABV, a reminder that dark beers don’t need to be high in alcohol to have full flavor. The finish is dry with some lingering malt flavor. Overall this beer is true to style and very well crafted, a great choice for St Patrick’s Day or any other occasion! Hoppy Boston score: 4.5/5.
Previous Medusa Reviews:
Medusa Summer Boy, Medusa Soft Machine, Medusa Polar Vortex, Medusa Slow Dog, Medusa Bad Omen, Medusa Prosperous and Citra Legacy, Medusa Black Ale Project, Medusa Mesmerist
Hoppy Boston 
