Amarillo Pale Ale
4 Hands Brewing Co.

 

 

 

 

 

 

a very well balanced american pale ale, pouring a mostly clear glowing golden color, enticing, with a one inch white foam head that lasts forever. the nose is certainly fresh hops, citrusy and bitter. the flavor brings in a nice light american barley malt to round out the intensity of the hops, but the lemon and orange zest flavors persist over the light bready malt. the finish is quick and crisp, not dry, but bitter and fast. the balance is perfect here, and this is an easy al day drinker, great carbonation and clarity in the feel, lighter medium body, very satisfying. this is a cool year round beer, but i see it more in the last spring than i do in the late fall, still, i was impressed with the potency of the amarillo hops, a neat variety to feature in an american pale ale. like all 4 hands stuff, this was an unexpected treat.

Up from Jacksonville FL and stopped in at the brewery.

A: single finger head with excellent lace on a hazy golden with slight amber hue body.

S: aroma is pretty light with citrus, mosty candied orange and musty malts base.

T: typical dulled sweetness citrus fruit and earthy hop flavors from Amarillo. The malt base is understated but right for the style.

M: medium body and moderate carbonation.

Overall: for me pale ales usually disappoint. This one has a full flavor without being too hoppy staying true to the style.