Judge’s Review: 92 – El Rhodeo by Moniker Brewery

International Pale Lager | Seasonal | USA

By Dan Martich

Judges Rating: 92
Aroma: 20
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 39
Mouthfeel: 9
Overall Impression: 18

El Rhodeo by Moniker Brewery is being evaluated as an International Pale Lager (Category 2A) from the 2021 BJCP Style guidelines. 
This beer presents itself with very low aromas of grainy malt and corn. The hops are also low, with characteristics of floral and herbal, which is on par for the style. No esters found, as indication of a cold maturation and lager yeast profile.
The beer poured pale yellow gold with a slight chill haze. The white head was thin and did not persist for very long, but many tiny bubbles were seen rising to the top.
The flavor comes forth with a small amount of grainy malt, floral and herbal hops. A bright lager fermentation is equally balanced towards the malt and hops. This beer has a short aftertaste and is mildly sulfury with a finish that is long and dry with no residual sweetness.
Light-bodied with high carbonation. No alcoholic warmth was detected, which is no surprise for a beer with an ABV of 4.6%. A slight carbonic bite on the tongue is present, indicative of the lager style.
This is an international pale lager that fits the style guidelines perfectly, and it’s a style that is recognized all over the world as the national beer of any given country. One that is meant to pair well with a variety of different foods from around the world – from fried foods in the Caribbean, to spicy foods in Asia and all across Europe and Africa. An easy-drinking beer, this beer would be popular wherever it is imbibed.