CynicAle
Surly Brewing Co.

 

Solid, well balanced farmhouse with good mouthfeel; a lighter fruityish/malty/slightly spicy flavor and a clean, quick-fading, belgiany-yeasty aftertaste. Very quaffable and an excellent starter brew for those 'saison-curious'.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Type: 16-oz. can
Glass: Clear 16.5-oz. Belgian ale tulip
From: My cousin Sam
Price: N/A
Purchased: N/A; Received July 21, 2018
Consumed: July 27, 2018
Reviewed as: Belgian Pale Ale
Misc.: Canned on May 29, 2018 at 9:33 a.m. CT

Thanks, Sam!

Got this with another 10 from Sam. Was psyched to try another beer from Surly. Online description on Surly’s website read, “A pale-gold hued ale, fermented with a Belgian yeast strain, resulting in a beer that has notes of lemon citrus from the hops, and black pepper spice from the yeast, with a dry “tingly” finish.” Not the biggest Belgian Pale Ale fan, but was still looking forward to this one.

Poured an amber semi-clear color with two fingers of frothy off-white head. Lots of bubbles coming up along the sides of the glass. Outstanding watery lacing. Outstanding retention. (Sight - 4.25)

Smelled cloves, apple, pear, banana, lemon peel, citrus zest, Circus Peanut candy, peach, apricot, Belgian candy sugary, grass and black pepper notes. From the can got pear, apple, cloves and pilsner malt. (Smell - 4.00)

Tasted similar to the nose, maybe not quite as good overall. In order got cloves, apple, pear, peach, Circus Peanut candy, banana, black pepper, apricot, lemon zest, Belgian candied sugar, grass and sourdough bread. (Taste - 3.75)

Medium body. Oily texture. Lively carbonation. Long, spicy finish. (Feel - 4.00)

Really liked this surprisingly. Would recommend this to any Belgian Pale Ale fan. (Overall - 4.00)

3.92 | 88 | B+

 

Complex refreshing, pleasantly balsamic aroma, taste of berry, wonderful hops.

 

Pours a light amber, lots of bubbles and very clear. Strong yeast profile on the nose with a bit of sweetness. Taste is malt-forward, slightly spicy, decently sweet, with a tart and slightly fruity finish. Light bodied, smooth and leaves a dry feeling at the finish. I know I tried this about a year ago and didn't love it, but I've changed my mind (and my palate!). Very refreshing and will definitely be in my summer rotation.

Pours a nice light amber color with a slight head and lacing. Aroma had nice saison hints. The taste follows the nose with nice saisin flavor. A well made well balanced beer.