There’s no irony or false advertising in New Belgium’s Hoptober. The name says it all.

Hops erupted from this deep gold ale from the moment you pour. Aficionados might appreciate the brewery’s blend of different varietals: Centennial, Cascade, Sterling and so on. This expresses itself on the nose as bitter honey, clover, hay and grass--promising heft and depth.

The beer’s tasting notes are equally intriguing. It rolls out with a lot of malt and bitterness, which softens into something akin to white bread toast and dark rye. In between, the balance flits between grilled pineapple, caramel and more elusive, offbeat notes--to my palate these included creamy butternut and lemongrass, in addition to others.

The bite stands out, however, as well as Hoptober’s unique mouthfeel: a noticeably creamy body that dissipates quickly. It would satisfy those who prefer clean, crisp beers and fans of English bitter ales.

Serve it with just about any deli sandwich. For football Saturdays (and Sundays), pair it up alongside a meat and cheese platter--provided the cheeses are nutty or mild. It may also work with Frosted Mini Wheats, but that’s really more of a problem than a recommendation.

Hoptober is not for every palate. But it delivers on its promise.