Judge’s Review: 89 Rating – Bright Pale by pFriem Family Brewers

American Pale Ale | Seasonal | United States

By Richard Wong

Judges Rating: 89
Aroma: 23
Appearance: 5
Flavor: 36
Mouthfeel: 8
Overall Impression: 17

Bright Pale by pFriem Family Brewers was reviewed as an American Pale Ale ( #18B ) of the 2015 BJCP Guidelines. The beer poured had a surprisingly light straw color ( almost golden ) hue.  This beer was well carbonated with tiny, small bubbles that did not dissipate, as if it was bottled under nitrogen, but I know that it was not.  The aroma of this Pale Ale was very lightly hopped with a subtle malt sweetness.  The flavor had a nice balance of both malt/hops that made it slightly sweetness (malt) with a subtle bitterness (hops).  The hops had a slight citrus and pine resin flavor.  The mouthfeel and body of this beer was light and the carbonation level about medium.  Upon first taste of this beer, I can categorically call this a ” Session ” Pale Ale.  It meets the guidelines of a Pale Ale, however, on the lower threshold for the style.  It was both light on the malt and on the hop bitterness, neverless it was a nice beer that can be drunk with ease as it has a 5% abv. Very smooth in the finish with no lingering bitterness.