Little Harpeth "Deer Crossing" Helles Lager

I showed this can to my brother-in-law, and he couldn't read the name of the beer on the can over the video chat software we were using, but he was still able to guess that it was called Deer Crossing. I suppose the camo background probably doesn't help the white cursive letters used for the name of the beer stand out, but that big yellow sign definitely grabs attention. Overall, good can design.

Straight out of the can, this looks more like a pilsner then most of the pilsners I've had recently. That kind of makes sense for this to look so similar to a pilsner, as the helles style is very similar to the point that I'm not sure I could pass a blind taste test between them. This is especially true since many craft breweries view beer styles as a sliding scale. A very limited head erupts during the pour, and the pale gold beer emits a sweet and floral aroma that is distinctly German.

First sip is outstanding. The approach with the beer is subtle and restrained while still managing to bring the weight of the sweet German malt and the tantalizing ethereal nature of the floral hops. The sweetness is slightly grainy and holds onto the tongue as a bitterness is detectable but does not shatter the sweetness in any way. This is subtle and refreshing.

Tip-in is light carbonation around strong, grainy malt with an accompanying sweetness. The middle flows gently down the gullet with the sweet malt still dominating as there is noticeable encroachment by the floral hops. The finish is that twang of bitterness that is surrounded by the sweetness and the flowers are permitted to hang on for the trail off.

Bottom Line: A delicious beer from a great local brewery.

4.75/5