I was craving something from my youth when I stopped in at Red Robin to have a Banzai Burger, and of course, there wasn’t a lot of what I’d call a good beer selection to go with it. Well, fortunately, they did have a beer that’s been generating as much buzz as a bases-loaded bottom of the ninth. The Big Dumper Lager from Everett’s Scuttlebutt Brewing.
If you’re a Mariners baseball fan, you know the name. Cal “Big Dumper” Raleigh has become a folk hero behind the dish, and this collaboration with Scuttlebutt, a brewery Cal used to frequent during his AquaSox days, is a home run for the local scene.
The Brand and Red Robin
Wee’ve seen the branding at the grocery store and it is bold, unapologetic, and features that iconic trident-inspired energy. I immediately recognized the tap handle when glacing over at the bar at Red Robin and didn’t hesitate to add it to my order. I believe this is the kind of beer you want in your hand while firing up the smoker or sitting in the bleachers at T-Mobile Park. And of course, Wee always love a beer that doesn’t take itself too seriously but still delivers on the craft.
A Beer to Savor
If you’re not in the mood for a single, double, or triple IPA (a rarity in our case). the Big Dumper Lager is a beer that’s sessionable enough for a long afternoon but has enough character to keep things interesting. I gave it 3 caps on Untappd which is a solid rating in my scorebook for a lager.
The Big Dumper hits the plate at a clean 4.5% ABV with 25 IBUs. It pours a crystal-clear straw gold with a light, frothy head. On the first sip, you get that classic, crisp lager snap. It’s got a mild malty backbone, but the real star here is the hop profile. Scuttlebutt used hops that provide a distinct light lime note.
It’s not a “lime beer” in the artificial, candy-sweet sense; it’s more of a bright, zesty citrus undertone that cuts through the malt and makes it incredibly delicious. It actually reminded me a bit of a high-end Mexican lager but with that distinct Washington craft touch.
The Wee Verdict for Scuttlebutt Big Dumper Lager
This beer is a “Utility King.” It’s perfect for yard work, watching the game with your buddies, and when you just want a beer that tastes like a really good beer.
Now, we’ve seen some debate online about the lime intensity, but for us, it hits the sweet spot. It’s refreshing, nostalgic, and a great tribute to Seattle’s favorite catcher. If you’re in the Everett area, stop in at Scuttlebutt. If you see it on tap at a Red Robin or local pub, have a pint. Or if you spot it at your local grocery store, buy a six-pack before the M’s hit their next winning streak.
Thanks to Cal and the Scuttlebutt crew for this one!
- Brewery: Scuttlebutt Brewing Company (Everett, WA)
- Beer: Big Dumper Lager
- Style: American Lager
- ABV: 4.5%
- Pairs Well With: Ballpark franks, yard work, and 9th-inning walk-offs.
WeeBeers Cheers!
Clark believes that the best professional relationships are built on shared experiences and a bit of fun. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Clark has been a vocal advocate of the local craft beer scene for years. He enjoys exploring the unique flavors and community-driven atmosphere of Washington’s and Oregon’s many breweries while working through the complex software architecture opportunities presented by social interaction. After a hard day of work, Clark can often be found on the karaoke stage any day of the week belting out 80’s rock and heavy metal tunes while bringing the same passion and energy to his performances as he does to his startups; valuing confidence, engagement, and the power of a good song and a bourbon barrel aged beer to bring people together.
