Tap Handle #679: Redhook - Seedy Blonde

Tap size:  12.5"
Rarity:  beer retired, tap no longer produced
Mounting:  internal 3/8" nut

Seedy Blonde is the first of two taps I'm profiling back-to-back that have appeared on this site previously...however, those appearances were as prizes in giveaway contests. Seedy Blonde was the prize for Tap Giveaway #6 back in July of 2016. It is a very imaginative tap, and as I mentioned in my contest, it features a tree trunk carved into a feminine figure, with a couple of apples and a Redhook sign strategically placed, and the initials "RH" (for Redhook) are "carved" into the trunk on the right "leg". On the left side is a strange symbol "burned in", that looks like a human-shaped figure who appears to be holding a large apple in one upraised hand. The figure can be seen better on the label, wearing a Sherlock Holmes style cap and holding the same two apples that appear as "breasts" on the tree. Very strange! At the top of the tap is a sign with the name of the beer on it. Another interesting detail on the back of the tap, just above the sign covering the "butt" of the tree trunk, are two marks that resemble apple seeds pressed into the tree, but also give an impression of "evil eyes". There's a lot of mystery waiting to be solved behind this tap's design. Since the beer and the tap are both out of production, it is getting a little harder to find. It does appear on the secondary market at a price right around historic values.

For more about Redhook, see this post.

Click through to read more about Redhook's Seedy Blonde Apple Ale and to see more photos of this mysterious and suggestive tap...

Seedy Blonde was an ale that Redhook saw as an entry into a fast growing category of apple ales and hard ciders. Introduced as a seasonal in 2015 on tap and in stubby 12 ounce bottles, Seedy Blonde was a nod to Redhook's roots, since 80% of domestic apples come from Washington State. It was billed as a refreshing and drinkable Blonde with flavors and aromas of apples. The finish was dry and slightly tart, balanced with Pale and Caramel malts and notes of red apple. However, the ale was mostly met with ambivalence, and production ceased later in 2015, never to return.

Ratebeer weighted average:  2.37 out of 5

Beer Advocate:  3.02 out of 5