Blonde Ale
River Run Brew Co.

473 mL can from Downtown Market; no packaging date and served slightly chilled.

Pours a clear pale golden colour, capped with just over a finger of smooth, foamy white head. Within a minute or two, it has been worn down to a creamy collar and thin cap; a narrow ring of lacing clings to the glass. Smells mainly of cereals & grainy malts, with hints of freshly baked bread, lemon peel and grassy hay.

An above average blonde with clean malt and subtle hop flavours. Whole grain bread and cereals at the forefront, with a touch of honey sweetness; hints of grassy hops and mild bitterness on the back end, concluding with a malty aftertaste that lasts for a moment or two. Good bite from the strong carbonation, which remains crisp and palate-scrubbing right down to the last few gulps. Excellent drinkability.

Final Grade: 3.82, a B+. River Run Blonde Ale isn't the most exciting beer you'll ever try, but I think it's a really good example of this style. Mostly just malt-forward, but it's wholesome and balanced, with just enough hop presence to tie it all together. Good for washing down some grub, or for pounding in the summer heat.