Paradise City

Paradise City by Birdsong Brewing is being evaluated as an American Pale Ale (Category 18B) from the 2015 BJCP guidelines. 

It poured golden yellow with a hazy clarity indicative of the yeast strain or dry-hopping. A frothy white head, with a long lasting retention frames the glass nicely. The aroma of grapefruit, ripe pear fruity esters, slight tropical fruit, and red berry notes is very welcoming. 

The flavor has a surprisingly biscuit malt note not perceived in the aroma. The hops come next, tipping the balance toward the bittering hops, which become more and more apparent the more you drink it. This beer has got a grainy malt character as it warms. The finish is very dry, with a long lingering aftertaste. 

The medium body and medium light carbonation keep this beer right in check with the style guidelines.There is a slight alcoholic warmth that is accentuated by the bitter dry mouthfeel, but without astringency. 

This beers seems to be on the higher end of the 30 to 50 IBU range of the style, yet flavorful. It demonstrates complexity and focuses on being bitter.  Well done for an ABV of 4.8%.