Ninkasi Pacific Rain Northwestpale

LOC: Eugene, Oregon ABV: 5.4% | IBUS: 50 | SRM: N/A

What the brewer says

“This flavorful Northwest pale ale starts with a balanced, malty sweetness that lays the groundwork for profiling some of the most alluring hops around. Citra, Mosaic, Simcoe, and Nugget hops varieties offer a captivating experience with flavor and aroma notes that are citrusy, tropical, floral, and piney. The residual sweetness rounds out the hops flavor, making each sip as smooth and refreshing as the last.”

What our panel thought

Aroma: “Pine and grapefruit/citrus, verging on catty, moderately strong malt—some caramel. Nice fruity esters. Subtle and interesting.” Flavor: “Light caramel malt with hints of toast. Nice grassy, lemon hops character balances nicely. Finish is relatively dry, well-balanced, with lingering bitterness and fruity hops character.” Overall: “A well-made light pale ale with interesting hops character and great balance throughout. It’s stronger on the fruity hops character than aggressive pine/resin, leaving a softer, more delicate finish.”

AROMA: 12 APPEARANCE: 3 FLAVOR: 18 MOUTHFEEL: 3 OVERALL: 9 91