Freya’s Pale From Exertion
Mad Swede Brewing Company

Really nice pale ale, I've only seen it in the Pacific Northwest. The otter malt gives it a distinct taste, not to earthy but not overly sweet. Also it's gets extra credit for the story and art.

another well executed beer from these guys, although this one seems a little more conventional than most of the others ive had so far. also, not sure if this is somehow always a fresh hop brew, or if there have been multiple editions of it. it was simply called freyas pale when i had it. some caramel color to this one, but i didnt find it particularly malty, just color, this was dry throughout, and definitely hop driven. there is a nice biscuit base to the grain, almost a harvesty agricultural vibe, but the beer is fermented to pretty dry, great balance, but no more from the malt than that. the hops taste pretty classic to me, even old school, maybe a mix of some european bittering types and some northwestern citrus character, i get both grassy bite and zested grapefruit and orange, very fresh and not at all forced or overdone, the kind of pale ale i want to make an afternoon of. the yeast has just a little bit of character too, making this really well rounded as they go, and frankly one of the more flavorful takes on the style i have had locally here in idaho, especially at this extremely modest abv. nobody seems to be talking much about these guys, but i have liked pretty much all their beer. this pale definitely measures up. a good year round fridge beer.

This is a go-to beer for me. It's right in the sweet spot for when I want something flavorful without being overpowering, session-able without being watery. The rich, earthy Maris Otter malt character and mild bitter balance and complement the citrus, melon, mango finish of El Dorado and Citra hops.

 

Rerate 4/11/20: Bomber from Albertsons. Clear copper pour, foamy head, fades to still. Sweet malty aroma with a light metallic edge, tobacco. Taste is malty, losing some of the sweetness for a dry leathery taste, more tobacco, and light metallic notes. Overall lingering bitterness, 9 volt battery.
Prior: 3.5
Draft at the brewery. Dark golden body with small ring of head. Faint aroma fades into a bitter bite, sharp hoppy notes, and lingers on the palate. Bigger and bolder than their Village IPA.l