The Dunedin Brewery is a brewery and restaurant in Dunedin, Florida, a town with a strong connection to Scotland. Yearly highland games, pipe and drum parades, and the frequent wearing of kilts are all common in this town in northern Pinellas County. Opened in 1996, it is one of the oldest still-operating breweries in the Tampa Bay area. Offering nine year-round beers and a selection of seasonals, Dunedin Brewery brews can be found in most of the better beer stores in the area. For American Craft Beer Week, I selected one that I had actually never had before: Piper’s Pale Ale. This beer has won numerous awards over the years, including several gold and silver medals. According to the website, “this hoppy brew is made in honor of the ‘Ancient Instrument of War’ and the Bag Piper who wields this musical weapon. Inspired by Dunedin's very own Pipe Major, Sandy Keith, we ferment this beer for all to enjoy.” The bottle description remarks “This American -style pale ale is brewed with three types of hops, producing a smooth flavor with a hoppy finish.”
The Piper’s Pale Ale pours a dark copper color with a thin, but lingering white head. Lacing is minimal. The aroma hints at some floral and herb-like hops, but is dominated by biscuity malt. The carbonation is moderate, just about right for the style and very refreshing. Taste is slightly bitter, but again dominated by pale and caramel malts. The ABV is purported to be 5.2%, but it is not very noticeable. Overall this is a very drinkable and refreshing beer. I could certainly see having a session with Piper’s Pale, especially as we move into the warmer months here in Florida.
I would also recommend that anyone in the area visit the brewery and pub, especially the “secret” section called “The Nook”. Filled with an amazing selection of craft beers from all over the world, you can’t go wrong. The food is good pub fare, and the atmosphere is great.
This article appears in Jun 10-16, 2010.