Lane's Pale Ale
Microbirrificio Opperbacco

It seems I am following in the footsteps of Gajo74, only two years later. I may have been more familiar with the first generation of Italian crafters, but have not drunk many of them in the last three years because they tend to have high price and sketchy quality. But on this trip, I'm more enjoying their second generation of crafters. And I see they collaborated with Johnny's Off License (bottle shop and bar and a great source.)

Looks pretty good, though a bit more hazy than an APA. Smells more like a NEIPA, but I'm OK with Lane's in the APA category. Tastes also are OK, but the after-taste is a bit bitter for a malt-head like me.

My first from Opperbacco, I went on their website and it took me to Facebook (which I do not like for political reasons.) Then, I could not find the English button. So, I am hamstrung. Opperbacco seems cool and Johnny's collaborated with them, so I give them big OA hugs. Good luck (if you are listening.)

So I'm vacationing in Rome, Italy with the expectation of encountering a big wine culture. However, I was mindful of what I had read beforehand regarding an emergent craft beer scene. Little did I know that it's more than emerging because, and perhaps it's the summer heat, everyone hear seems to be drinking beer.
I picked up a couple of bottles of Lane's Pale Ale at Johnny's Off License bottle shop on the recommendation of the guy in the shop. It pours a very hazy unfiltered golden straw with hints of orange. The carbonation is visible and there is a big frothy head that takes a while to dissipate. It leaves a good amount of lacing that looks like ocean foam.
Putting it up to the nose there is a bit of herbal and mild dank, not pungent but moderate within APA territory. What really stands out for me is the peach aroma. There is also a bit of citrus such as orange and grapefruit.
Putting it in my mouth I'm impressed by the smoothness. It is on the light side of medium bodied with a gentle carbonation. Clean at first with an herbal hops forward feel. The pale malt texture is soft and has a muted and understated sweetness. As it warms up, the flavors really begin to open up nicely. Citrusy with flavors of orange peel and grapefruit. The peach adds a nice tangy and juicy quality. The cracker malt sweetness becomes more pronounced.
Really easy to drink and flavorful. I am quite impressed by this first impression of the Italian craft beer scene.