Congo Pale Ale
Upright Brewing Company

The premise behind Congo is that it's an IPA recipe fermented with saison yeast. Does this work? Yup, it sure does. Congo's taste has strong notes of tangerine with a scent of persimmons. Rustic yet wheatless saison qualities dominate while the hoppy IPA character is still formidable. This makes Congo simultaneously fruit-sweet and drinkably tart. The beer is clouded copper with a full soapy head, and it's easily the most hop-driven ale on Upright's agenda. Worth seeking though it remains to be seen how frequently Upright will brew it.

On draught at Bailey's, Congo Pale Ale is a hazy straw yellow with a white head leaving nice lace.

Smell is a big blast of spicy, floral noble hops, presumably Saaz. Also big tropical fruit saison esters.

Taste is similar, with the hops dominating the yeast, and manifesting themselves mostly in the bitterness department. A bit harsh at first, but once my palate adjusted, it was very enjoyable.

Mouthfeel is dry and slick, medium-light bodied.

Drinkability is pretty good. Slow going the first few sips, it picked up major momentum however as I drank through it. If it would have had more hop flavor to balance the bitterness, it would be spot on. Style wise, this is a saison due to the yeast, but in the Belgian IPA style.

On tap at Upright tasting room out of the auxiliary 3-tap system, 1.16.10, 12 oz pour $3.

Deep golden body, a bit of haze, one finger white head, slow dissipation with nice lacing. Pretty hoppy nose, probably the most hoppy of all Upright brews to date, pine and floral notes with some citrusy esters present. A bit sweet up front, bready malts in the middle, but a nice bitter and dry finish. Smooth mouthfeel, nicely carbonated. Pretty drinkable. Not sure if this is going to be a regular offering, and unsure about the style, even after consulting Brewer's Association guidelines (could be a Belgian Pale Ale) but in any case it's a nice addition to Upright's outstanding offerings. Recommended.