Review: Haters Gonna Hate Imperial Kölsch by Beau’s

I went into the LCBO (the Liquor Control Board of Ontario) today looking to try something new and different. My local store often rotates random selections of craft beers from across Ontario.

I noticed today that Kölsch-style beers (actual “Kölsch“ beers must be produced within a 50km radius of Cologne, Germany, per the Kölsch Konvention – seriously) were plentiful in selection from a number of local breweries.

I’ve tried many beers from Beau’s, a great brewery in Vankleek Hill, Ontario, and the labeling of Haters Gonna Hate made me chuckle, so I took the plunge for the $7.95 price tag of the 600 mL bottle.

With Beau’s having pride in being a craft brewery with a focus on sustainable and ethical brewing, I was not surprised to see that Haters Gonna Hate was certified organic and brewed with local spring water.

Despite clocking in at a strong 7.1% ABV, the taste was clear and crisp, much like the colour of the brew. On the nose, there is a mild fruitiness, which blends well with the malty aroma.

The carbonation is understated, but not verging on flat, which allows the flavour to shine through. As a strong beer, there is an undoubted bitterness, though it is well balanced and pleasant, with a smooth aftertaste.

In contrast to a much hoppier 7.1% like Amsterdam’s Boneshaker (one of my all-time favourite hoppy brews), Beau’s has created a beer that finishes almost too clean for this weight class.

It is a great strong beer for the summer with the subtle tropical notes and balanced flavour, but still packs the punch that one would seek from a maltier brew.

I’m not completely sure what is spawning the local Kölsch trend, but after Haters Gonna Hate, I am happily on the bandwagon. No hate here.

• ABV: 7.1%
• IBU: N/A (likely between 20-30)
• Style: Imperial Kölsch
• Taste: Bitter, but crisp
• Rating: 4.5/5
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Ryan Heighton

The Bar of Ontario isn’t the only bar to which he’s been called. Misses drinking at the SkyDome. Enjoying Waterloo Region one (sometimes two) craft beer at a time. Favourite beers: anything hoppy enough to jump off the table.

Latest posts by Ryan Heighton (see all)

• Review: Sparklepuff Triple IPA by Flying Monkeys Craft Brewery - February 11, 2019
• Review: All Brett Double Black IPA by 5 Paddles Brewing Company - January 4, 2019
• Review: So Long and Thanks for all the IBUs by Town Brewery x Muddy York Brewing Co. - December 7, 2018

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