McGuires Pale Ale

Aroma: 9 | Appearance: 9 | Mouthfeel: 9 | Flavor: 10 | Overall: 9

An awesome pale ale that is comparable to some of the world's best. McGuire's certainly delivers in this case as this is a must-drink brew at their establishment. Nice and hoopy with a slight, but unmistakable citrusy taste. Excellent finish.

Aroma: 8 | Appearance: 8 | Mouthfeel: 8 | Flavor: 8 | Overall: 8

As a hop-head, I've been burned on many occasions by non-West Coast breweries that try selling a "Pale Ale" as either a paler (and weaker) version of their standard ale, or with vile amounts of old-style hops like Cluster (that barely works in a lager, and not at all in any sort of concentration). Each time, I end up enjoying my next pint of Sierra Nevada or Stone that much more. But past experiences don't keep me from trying again and again. And this time, at least, I was not sorely mistaken. On the contrary, I grew to like this Pale Ale, and it's roots to both the West Coast and The Old Country.

This seasonal offering (which I first tried as part of a six-beer sampler set, and later a full pint, at the Pensacola brewpub location) is touted to be massively packed full of hops. Well, in comparison to what is normally available in the Northern Gulf Coast area (and in comparison to the McGuire's beers, as well), this may very well be the most bitter beer around. Probably around 35 IBU's, I would guess - though that is in keeping with my lack of any hops for almost a week, so maybe my taste buds are off a bit! Either way, this Pale Ale (which is indeed very, very pale) has enough American hops to take notice, and enough European-style malt goodness to back it up. Recommended.
//TB