Photo by J.T. Wampler
This week’s beer: Acme California Pale Ale from North Coast Brewing Co. in Fort Bragg, Calif.
Acme California Pale Ale is from a wonderful brewery that also brings us Old Rasputin Russian Imperial Stout, Red Seal, Brother Thelonious and Scrimshaw Pilsner.
At 5.0% ABV, this ale is brewed with Yakima Valley hops and American pale malt and British specialty malts for color and complexity of flavor.
It pours a light amber color with an off-white head that quickly dissipates, but a nice lacing follows the ale down the glass with each sip. The aroma is clean, mild and malty without much hops present, but with a hint of orange blossoms.
The flavor is a nice balance of hops and malt without either rising to prominence. There is a lingering aftertaste that is not unpleasant, but unique. It has an overall nice flavor and is really easy to drink. The kiss of hops compliments the malt backbone and creates a nice balance.
This is one of the better pale ales I’ve ever tried. Of course I’ve yet to have a beer from North Coast Brewing Co. that is anything but top-notch. They obviously take care to produce fine products and it shows.
Pair with seafood or a medium rare steak.
Rating 4
J.T Wampler
J.T. is a contributor for the Fayetteville Flyer and writes the “It’s All About the Beer” column. He is also the owner and brewer at the Tanglewood Branch Beer Co., located at 1431 S. School Ave. in Fayetteville. For more beer reviews from J.T., see his author page.
