If an everyday pilsner is a family sedan, then Imperial Pilsner is a turbo-charged sports car.

"It is not a beer for beginners," says Jim Koch, brewer and founder of the Boston Beer Co., which brews Samuel Adams beer. Rather, he says, "it is a treat for beer connoisseurs."

Samuel Adams Hallertau

Boston Beer Co.$10 for four 12-ounce bottles

The label promises an intense hop experience, and this copper-colored brew delivers just that. The bitterness initially took my breath away. Something to sip while nibbling a big blue cheese.