Local's Stash Juniper Pale Ale

Local’s Stash Juniper Pale Ale by Crazy Mountain is brewed with grapefruit, juniper berries and lime and is being evaluated as a Spice, Herb, or Vegetable Beer (2015 BJCP Category 30A) offering according to the BJCP guidelines. For this style expect a blend of spice, herb and/or vegetables adding complexity to the base beer style.

Juicy grapefruit and limes present themselves early along with a pleasant dank and herbal hop character closely following. Lightly lactic and citric, this beer also marries a cereal malt backbone with light cracker malt notes and freshly dried juniper berries. Soft peach and apricot yeast esters provide complexity to the aroma. A near opaque orange pour allows a small, frothy white head to sit atop for a brief moment and then yields a small cordon and spare top film. Lightly sweet cereal and cracker malt provide a wonderful backdrop for the fresh citrus of grapefruit and lime along with the peach and apricot esters. The beer is well-balanced with a lightly dry finish. Medium-light body and light carbonation with some alcohol warmth.

I really enjoyed this beer and the light juniper character, something which is often overdone. The juniper nicely complements the fresh grapefruit and lime. Age would not be kind to this beer, so enjoy it fresh alongside tropical fruit and roasted or grilled pork.