Body Surfing
Rip Current Brewing

A pretty good American rendition of a Belgian Pale. Body Surfing's yeast approaches what the masters' use. Also, this Pale borders on a BSPA's complexity in how it presents its malts (full fruity) and spicing (background peppery.) This is a very satisfying ale to have with food and by itself.

A personal passion grown-up, Rip Current not surprisingly makes its money brewing IPAs, then stouts and porters, and then, maybe, makes some money from a medley of other styles. With such diversions of energy, they still have done a good job finding and/or cultivating this Belgian yeast for Body Surfing.

Rip Current is under five years old. But these guys love what they do and it shows in the awards they have won. Some OA Hugs to them.

Pleasant enough. Mercifully not super sweet. Strangely lacking body though. Just a touch more heft would make it a pretty good beer.

April 11th, 2015 - As usual, I preface this review saying I'm not a huge fan of Blondes. But Rip Current nails the style (again), cooking up a gorgeous, mostly clear deep blonde brew and a nicely 3-dimensional head. The aroma reminds me of clove (even after having recently brushed my teeth), with some banana in evidence too. The flavor isn't too sweet, with a deep blonde flavor. Each sip gives a long echo of saffron and biscuit and pretzel dough, though the body is thinner than it seems like it night be. This is a deeply appealing blonde, and shows off what the style can do.

 

Attractive dark gold brew with plenty of foam in the tall Petrus goblet. Crisp and spritzy in the mouth. Long aroma of orange and apricot. Slight bitterish aftertaste adds to the interest.

The Belgian yeasty character is quite bold, but it all goes together well. It tastes like more of a Saison with all the fruit. This is a perfectly delicious fruity brew, strong yet light; malty but balanced with a bit of astringency. From the six-pack of 12 oz cans purchased at Barons Market.