Skater Aid

Skater Aid by Gnarly Barley Brewing Co. is an Italian-style crisp pilsner and was judged as an International Pale Lager according to the 2015 BJCP style guidelines (sub-style 2A). It poured a very clear gold into the glass, forming a thick white head with moderate retention. The aroma led off with strong pilsner malt notes with some barley graininess, followed by bittering hops in the background. Dominant flavors were also malt-forward with a pleasant subdued grainy character as well as the same hop esters sensed in the aroma, though this time they included some spicy hop notes reminiscent of and possibly including the Saaz varietal. Balance between malt and hops is the signature strength of this beer. The mouthfeel included a light body, crispness throughout the taste, relatively low carbonation for style, and no creaminess, warmth or astringency.

This beer’s drinkability is high due to the complete absence of major flaws, and conversely an inviting simplicity in the finished product achieved through the brewer’s art.