Judge’s Review: 80 Rating - Southern Passion by Devils Backbone Brewing Co.

Southern Passion by Devils Backbone Brewing Co. is being evaluated as an International Pale Ale (Category 2A) from the 2015 BJCP guidelines.

This beer poured with a deep golden color, with excellent clarity, and a very thick mousse-like white head that had long persistence. A very inviting and beautiful sight to see.

The aroma had a light malt sweetness, resembling a corn-like character, with a very light amount of spicy/floral hops. A dry crisp quality about it reminded me of Asahi Super Dry beer, a commercial example of the style. Light grapefruit notes emerge as it sits in the glass while spicy hops develop once roused.

Low grainy malt notes, no cracker or bready, yet has a hint of sweetness. A moderately low sharp bitterness, and a dry flavor comes through here as well. Balanced with a soft dry finish while a light slickness was perceived on the roof of the palate.

A good beer with not much in the way of awakening the palate; it isn’t unpleasant, just not resulting in anything interesting. A beer for introducing someone to craft beer or the international pale lager style.