Ithaca Beer Company is located in Ithaca, N.Y. began in 1998 making small batches. Today it pumps out around 25,000 barrels of beer. Among those is Mo’ Kolsch. Mo’ Kolsch is a limited release German Style Ale with an ABV of 5.75%.
The beer poured a hazy, golden yellow with a white foamy head that was about one finger thick. The aroma was almost neutral but there were notes of hops, malt, and a slight fruit note. There was a moderate amount of bubbles present.
The first sip was pretty interesting. There is a sweetness to this brew that I wasn’t expecting. It is a little subtle at first but that was replaced by hops and malt before a fruity sweetness finished the sip. The sweetness seems like it comes from something tropical but I can’t quite pinpoint the exact fruit. It almost tastes like a guava or papaya but I can’t quite put my finger on it.
The malt and hops blend well but the fruity finish is what stands out, giving it a refreshing finish that makes you want another sip. It feels light-bodied in the mouth with a moderate amount of carbonation but is a little dry. The head dissipated to form a light cover on the beer and around the edge of the glass. The foam laced the glass well.
Mo’ Kolsch is, overall, a refreshing beer. I don’t know if it really is a German-style ale but more like a fun take on a German recipe which is completely fine. The hops are present but don’t dominate and the fruity finish makes this a very nice summer brew. I can definitely see having one or two by the pool or after doing yard work.