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Mike Castagno's picture

Good People Pale Ale

January, 2016
Judges Rating: 
84
Aroma: 
19 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
34 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
9 / 10
Overall Impression: 
16 / 20

This example of an APA is a divergence from the traditional American Pale Ale. Typically you expect to see a bright citrus hop aroma and flavor with a noticeable yet pleasant bitterness. In this beer, however, there is a moderate level of bready, doughy malt with a touch of cracker and a surprising Continental-type spicy hop aroma with a slightly sharp mineral character and a touch of sulfur. The beer has an excellent finish; it's dry and crisp, leaving a refreshingly clean aftertaste. The bitterness is moderate and quick to fade, which leaves you reaching for more, sip after sip, throughout the beer. Its departure from tradition, while appreciated, may disappoint the consumer if they were seeking more of a Sierra Nevada-inspired Pale Ale. This beer constantly reminds me more of a Dortmunder Export albeit it slightly more ale-like than lager. Still, this is an enjoyable, easy-drinking beer for a warm summer day.