Founders Pale Ale
Re-reviewing this old friend (actually this is probably only 6-8 wks. old). Poured into my nonic 'Bass Ale" pint glass a slightly hazy muted gold/light copper color with a blossoming loose/dense 1 1/2" head. Lots of visible carbonation rushing upward. Thick globular rings of bulging lace all the way down. Fresh & fruity lovely hop aroma that glides across the nostril hairs and livens up the soul. Light concord grape notes with a hint of crusty sourdough bread. The flavors are supremely well-balanced and very simple; bitter & fruity hops (albeit a bit more perfumy in flavor when compared to the 'fruity' nose). The malts are extra soft and play a nice supporting roll to the friendly hop host. Mouthfeel is superb. Very finely carbonated at an above average level. Airy, playful and a tad prickly. On the lighter side of medium bodied. Zesty, chalky/bitter flavorful finish. Drinkability is killer. Thia beer is so good al by itself and very versitile with a bevy of food choices. You sure can quaff this sucker. Overall a solid, simple and satisfying brew that I appreciate even more, now that I've been enjoying it for almost 7-8 years. A great non-thinking beer for all beer lovers. Just enough chalky dry bitterness you'd expect from an American Pale Ale with an ample amount of fresh hoppy flavor & bite. Quenching and very easy to drink. --- Served from a 12 oz. twist-off brown bottle. No freshness date. Pours a light clear copper color w/ fine yeast suspension.Nice 1 inch white head that has staying power. The nose is a bit timid with floral & perfumey fruit notes, but not much else. Nice dose of quenching dry hop and a (little bit of) pizza dough-like maltiness. Somewhat sharp and very dry hop character. Citrus fruit tanginess stays nicley mingled with the (again) dry hop finish. Mouthfeel is finely carbonated with a light-med body that's crisp & slightly oily. A good hand crafted pale ale that would be an excellent choice for first-timers. This ale's biterness/dryness sure keeps you thirsty!