The best beers of January

A classic IPA and a mind-bending lager make the list

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This month, five beers made it to the top of our list of beers we enjoyed, and as always, we bring you a variety of styles. There’s something in this list for everyone, including a classic.

— Joseph Lavoie

Backcountry - Ridgerunner Pilsner

Close-up of a can of beer featuring a lantern

Backcountry Brewing Co.

This treatment of a German Pilsner is very solid. It pours with brilliant clarity and with an attractive light gold colour. The nose has a pronounced sweet malt aroma. A light maltiness gives way to a light bitterness in the mouth with floral hop notes that accent the flavour profile throughout. The finish is crisp and clean. You’ll want to come back to this one on hot summer nights when you’ve got the BBQ on the go.

Russell Brewing - A Wee Angry Scotch Ale

Can of Wee Angry Scotch Ale with black and orange label featuring swords

Russell Brewing

As you would expect from a Scotch Ale, this one sports a dark brown colour with a light head that dissipates quickly. The ester-forward nose has robust caramel undertones that remind you you’re about to enjoy a malty treat. Sweet caramel on first contact gives way to rich malt flavours that brighten up with the finish. We didn’t get much of the promised smoky character, but with a medium body and a drier-than-you-would-expect finish, this version is still on point.

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