Capitol Copper Ale
American River Brewing Company

Appearance - Poured into a snifter to a relatively clear, brilliant amber color with a sandstone, finger width head. Fair retention, leaving behind a thin, broken layer of surface suds. Lacing consists of a few broken lines and spots here and there, with good stick.

Smell - Malty with light, fruity and hoppy notes that hit on apple, floral and citrus character.

Taste - Sets up with a caramel backbone that's consistent throughout. Playing off that caramel base are delicate notes of fruity 'apple-ish' esters, floral hop and a faint orange flavor. Finishes with a very light floral bitterness.

Mouthfeel - Light to medium in body with moderate carbonation. Smooth, slightly dry finish.

Overall - A lighter example of the Amber style, relying more on balance and a delicate complexity to deliver one of the more unique ambers on the market. This may not appeal to everyone, particularly for somebody looking for a heavier amber, but I think this is a sneaky good beer, and would be a great option for those high end-of-summer temperatures.

Pours two fingers of head on a clear dark straw body.
The aroma is grain and caramel. Nice.
The taste is nicely malty to start, then a good lemon bitterness snakes through to the end. Finishes on a bitter note. Good profile.
The texture is medium.
A great amber ale. Good malt profile.