Antler Ale
Aksarben Brewing Co.

Clear, pale yellow in hue; while the liquid is not quite sickly looking, it is far lively. White head, at the apex the head was one finger tall. Head retention was fair, the bubbles hung around a bit before turning into a small cap. Subsequent lacing was spotty but not very widespread. For a Blonde Ale, this isn’t half bad, appearance-wise.

The nose is faintly spicy with a tickle of sweetness. Okay, what is this beer? “Antler Ale” implies, well this is an ale. However, the commercial description compares it to Moosehead. IMO, the nose smells like neither. It is empty but inoffensive… clearly not inviting but I am not repulsed.

The palate is clean, slightly fruity with an almost hay-like maltiness. From start to finish this beer tastes the same but it isn’t too bad. Sadly, the finish is watery, fruity, and slightly metallic. Every beer I have tried from “AK” has this quality. I don’t like the faux malt sweet aftertaste. If this beer had more depth it would be better. I can tolerate it “as is.” Tolerate is a long way from enjoy.

Medium-light in body, heavy carbonation, the mouthfeel is rather watery, harsh, and disagreeable.

I could probably finish my bottle but I don’t really want to and I don’t expect to buy this again. Maybe if you drink it really cold from the bottle it would be better… so would Moosehead. In fact, give me a Moosehead over this any day of the week. I purchased a bottle at the brewery. Steer clear.