Rogue, thou art glorious.  It was a chance purchase that introduced me to the awesomeness of the Chatoe line of bombers crafted at Brewers on the Bay in Newport, Ore., northwest capital of beer, Rogue Nation.  First impressions of the OREgasmic Ale: nice, delicious coppery looking color; has a pretty good-sized head; the scent gives this ale’s true greatness away from the get-go.  The first taste hits with an immediate burst of delicious flavor. It’s got a very crisp start, with a pungent floral sort of things, hops galore, and then the rest of it tastes very malty and smooth.  Each time it tastes a bit different, another facet takes the stage, utterly unique … well, just as the name implies.  This is an orgasmic beer, a true northeastern ale in style with potent layers of flavor that empty your glass rather quickly regardless of the 22oz barrel of helping.  This was a damn fine find which made up for the fact that my favorite, the American ale by the same brewery, was not available at the time.  And, well, this one holds its own.  It is neither overbearing nor underwhelming.  A delicious and very refreshing testament to that balance that one finds in very well-made craft beer.  If you have the opportunity, and the will, pick one of these up for a great sunny afternoon quencher, it will not disappoint!

Cheers!

— Franz Solo