Steep Canyon Ale
Pisgah Brewing Co.

An extra pale ale from Pisgah, brewed in celebration of a new album from the Steep Canyon Rangers. Can't say I've heard the band but I've had the beer.

A: The ale is a lighter amber color, clear with a tea color. A finger and a half of white head leaves plenty of lace behind.

S: Plenty of bready malts with a light hoppiness lingering below the surface. Until the ale hits room temperature, that maltiness is dominant, lending toasty breads to the ale. Only at that higher temperature does a lighter citrus aroma come out. Extra pale with the emphasis on the breads.

T: Lightly toasted malts sing throughout each glass, a chewy but approachable lightness. The ale's citrus hoppiness remains restrained for most of the ale, gradually peeking through after the ale has warmed up. Until that point, the toasted breads carry the day. The most citrus comes in the finish, a pleasant finish that has just enough zest to stand out. Quite quaffable.

M: A good growler choice - bready with a strong finish. Steep Canyon isn't a game changer like Valdez. Rather, it's just a good drinkin' ale that's perfect for a warm day.