Stone Farms Lavender Pale Ale
Stone Brewing

Pours a slightly cloudy, dark golden orange color with deep apricot edges and a one finger frothy white head that quickly settles into a thick, lasting ring. Sporadic streaks of soapy lacing left behind.

Floral and slightly earthy resinous hop aroma with a strong lavender/flower petal presence countered by grassy hops and a sweet malt backbone. Fresh cut grass, pine resin and strong lavender character countered by caramel and toffee. Stronger malt presence than I prefer for the style but the lavender is interesting and adds depth to the nose.

Fuller end of medium body with strong floral hop bitterness that lingers over the sweeter notes and malt backbone into a bone dry finish. Lavender floral presence isn't as strong as in the aroma but there is still plenty of interesting hop flavor. Earthy dry bitterness with grass, pine needle and spruce tip countered by caramel malt sweetness, toffee, roasted nut and slightly charred toast. Well balanced but has less lavender than I had hoped for and the malt flavors are a bit strong for my preference. Still, this is a decent pale ale with good hop flavor.