So i had the ultimate Thursday pleasure to enjoy the two items in subject:

The Fresh Hop was exactly that: a wonderful light bodied yet deeply flavorful ale with wonderful hops of the brightest and freshest quality. I enjoyed this so much, it made me giggle. Its got the best palate weight with great after taste of hops and an effervescent something that i can't describe without thinking of sunshine and smiles.

Also, the Left Hand XXXMas Ale: a devastating dollop of gingerbread and winter spices dance with a medium to dark bodied ale that pleases to the wassail in us all. Its wonderful in its simplicity, along with its well crafted flavors of spices and subtle pumpernickel. Warms to the toes.

enjoy,
~d