Review: Independence Brewing Native Texan and Oklahoma Suks

Independence Brewing was founded by two University of Texas alumni, so it makes sense that the founders would support the home team on this, the eve of 122nd edition of the Red River Rivalry against the University of Oklahoma, held annually at the Cotton Bowl in Dallas. But Independence bleeds burnt orange so much that they even put out to memorialize that rivalry, particularly the hatred for all things Oklahoma — a distaste that runs so thick that “OU Sucks!” is unofficially part of the Texas fight song.

Today we pour fresh pints of Independence’s most visible year-round offering, Native Texan, as well as the OU brew.

Independence Brewing Native Texan Review

Closer to a German style pilsner, with Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops pumped up to 36 IBUs. Brisk and foamy, this is a boldly malty beer that could well be Bavarian if you didn’t see the label, with a big pretzelly character that really fills the mouth. Light lemon and some cardamom notes sneak in as the beer warms up, the citrus becoming increasingly prominent as the finish arrives. Chewy but well-rounded, it’s touched with enough nuance to work whether it’s Oktoberfest or not. 5.2% abv. A- / $10 per six-pack

Independence Brewing Oklahoma Suks Review

A standard pilsner with a lighter sprinkling of Hallertau Mittelfrüh hops (just 10 IBUs). Considerably more straightforward, here the malt and cereal do all the heavy lifting, which leaves you with a rather sweet finish to deal with that ends up a little one note. Tasted side by side, the hops in Native Texan pull more of their weight than it originally seems, and Oklahoma Suks leaves the game with an overtly doughy, almost gummy quality on the tongue. Perhaps, of course, that’s the intent. Best enjoyed with a side of OU vs. Georgia highlights. 5% abv. B / $10 per six-pack

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