On The Road Pale Ale
Dark Horse Brewing Company

 

 

 

 

 

A chic yet sensible Pale Ale done the American way, this new offering from Dark Horse steers clear from gimmicks or games- but hits home the classic taste of the cornerstone style for domestic craft brewing.

Light amber in color, the ale pours with a bright and sprite appearance. An abundance of carbonation rush to the top of the glass in order to construct a frothy cotton-white head. Its structure is firm as it lasts the session confidently, lacing impressively with every drink.

Vibrant aromas of Pacific Northwest hops make first aromatic impressions with sharp notes of grapefruit and orange peel- this classic scent is lightly grassy and piney with a deeper look within. But the hops don't stand alone- a stern backbone of caramel and graham cracker supports the hops well and nearly balance them completely.

Reversely, the taste is sweet with light caramel and honey as the malts coat the early palate. But then the middle palate invites hop flavors of red grapefruit juice and freshly zested oranges. This malty-hoppy balance carries through deeply into taste until the sweetness trails and the hops turn to lightly acidic bitterness, seemingly of pine resin and fresh-cut grass.

Medium bodied, the beer starts creamy and smooth with the carbonation and sweetness in tact. But as the carbonation dissipates, the sweetness recedes and the hop bitterness grows, the beer dries out beautifully, leaving only a mildly warming alcohol and a linger of citrus on the palate.

If it seems like this description reads familiarly, then you're right. This is the classic taste of Pale that's been attempted a thousand times by every brewer in American. But Dark Horse does it right as it hits the median of the style to perfection. Its simply a crisp and non-boastful beer that's an absolute joy to drink.