Mon Ami is our collaboration with our good friends at 2nd Shift Brewing. We took a classic route on this as it is inspired by the great golden strong ales of Belgium. Its simplicity on paper--Pilsner malt, table sugar, German hops, hardened water, and yeast--belie its complexity in the glass. Mon Ami pours burnished gold with a tightly beaded white head. Aromas of pear, banana, and orange combine with spicy alcohol and Hallertau hops. With each sip, the alcohol grows with warming intensity. Midsip there is a clean residual malt sweetness before the rush of carbonation washes over the palate. Pear and alcohol linger in the finish. Pairs well with grilled salmon and triple crème Brie.