Start 14-Day Trial Subscription

*No credit card required

Rodney A. Tillinghast's picture

Beach Blonde Ale

July, 2016
Judges Rating: 
85
Aroma: 
20 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
34 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
8 / 10
Overall Impression: 
17 / 20

The blonde ale poured a deep shade of golden yellow, with a medium carbonation that spewed forth a distinctive white head that fell quickly. This beer was remarkably clear, which allowed me to watch the light carbon dioxide bubbles rise in my snifter.

A quick swirl, and the aroma revealed a mild bready/malty character, supported by background notes of lemon, pepper and waffles-- all of which were correct for the style. Upon tasting, the beer revealed a soft grainy profile, supported by very restrained bitterness and a medium body that finished quite dry. The malt characters of toast and wheat grain continued throughout the finish.

For the style, the beer seems to check all of the requisite boxes. It had a very pleasant neutral character that, when combined with all of the characteristics noted above, would make a terrific session beer on a hot summer’s day, where the drinker is seeking something more substantial than a yellow fizzy lager. Not an unbelievably complex beer, but simplicity and straightforwardness are hallmarks of the style.