This one was also a selection in the Zach and Cari "drink our beer" overstock.  Being a fan of Pale Ale, and not ever really hearing of Smuttynose Brewing Company, I was very interested to give this Pale a whirl.  See how this first tasting of any of the Smuttynose line of beers went by reading on.

Ken's Review

Taste: A- Good God, man!  The Shoal's Pale ale was not hesitant on taste.  You almost immediately get a sort of hoppy taste when it first hits your tongue, followed quickly by a very nice strong citrus taste.  This one is definitely how a Pale Ale should be, and for me ranks up there with the likes of Sierra Nevada's Pale Ale.

Packaging: B+ Smuttynose likes to use large graphics in their lables along with mainly just the name of the beer.  I like this, because it comes across as a simplistic beer in a lot of ways, and increases the enjoyment when you try it and realize there is not really anything simple about it.  This particular one has a picture of an old country house, reminiscent of Jenny's grandmother's house in Forrest Gump.  That's pretty much it.  And that's ok with me.

Value: ?  This is one of those that I have no clue on.  If I get the info on the pricing I'll be sure to update this in the future.

Drunkeness: B- I was surprised on this one, as Shoal's Pale Ale only comes in at 5% even in alcohol content.  With the nature of the taste being so bold, I was expecting it to have somewhere in the 5.5% area.  But this one keeps the alcohol relatively low while providing a great taste.  Not at all one I would recommend getting drunk on, as I do not recommend that with really any Pale Ale, but definitely worth trying a few to get the night started right.

Overall: A- Smuttynose has me as a fan so far with this selection.  I think this Pale Ale overall was outstanding, and I am very much interested to see what their other beers are like.  If you are a fan of Pale Ale and you have an opportunity to get some Shoal's, do not pass it up!  You will not be disappointed with this one and can thank me for the recommendation later.

Last update: 06-21-2009 23:56