Wednesday, November 6, 2013

Belgian Pale Ale Project – White Birch Brewing’s Belgian Style Pale Ale (#15)

22 ounce bomber decanted into an oversized snifter.  6.7% ABV.

Appearance:  Brilliant copper with an amazing eggshell head.  I have not had a beer in this style that retains its foam cap as well as this one (5/5).

Aroma:  Freshly cut apples, maple syrup, brown sugar, and a faint “soapy” character (not unpleasant or out of place).  Very nicely layered (4.5/5).

Taste:  Pressed apples and pears.  Beautiful product of the right malt and yeast combination.  No bitterness to report whatsoever (4/5).

Mouthfeel:  Medium body, medium carbonation.  Lively (4.25/5).

Overall:  Of the Belgian Pale Ales I’ve enjoyed lately, most of my favorites have taken the style and spun it into something unique and personalized (unconventional hop additions, Brettanomyces, etc.)  But this beer has the balls to just be traditional.  Mild noble hop aroma, strong apple and pear smell and flavor, low ABV.  I’m impressed (4.5/5).

-Matt

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