Judge’s Review: 94 Rating – Salty Crew Blonde Ale by Coronado Brewing Co.

Blonde Ale | Year-Round | United States

By John C. Tull

Judges Rating: 94
Aroma: 21
Appearance: 5
Flavor: 39
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 19

Salty Crew Blonde Ale by Coronado Brewing Co.​ was judged as a Blonde Ale (18A). The aroma is characterized by some malt sweetness and a subtle bready quality. There are no hop aromas, as anticipated, and a touch of sulfur is present in the background. The appearance is pale golden with excellent clarity, though very little, if any, head forms beyond a few pale bubbles along the edge of the glass beer. The malt flavor is wonderfully soft with a hint of sweetness. A touch of malt bready character comes through as well. A very subtle hop flavor with an earthy quality is present, and the bitterness is balanced as expected for a Blonde Ale, though it does lean to the high end of the style spectrum. The carbonation is firm, providing a slight carbonic edge that adds dimension. The body is medium-light. Overall, this is a really well-made Blonde Ale. Yes, this is typically a style that serves as a gateway beer for breweries and brewpubs, but I would happily have this anytime when something less complicated, and more traditionally American, is warranted. I would enthusiastically encourage anyone to try this beer.