When it comes to pale ales, everyone has his/her own idea on what makes for the perfect combination of water, malt, hops, and yeast. Some prefer classic approaches, but an increasing number like new-school hops and haze. We asked five brewers and industry pros from around the country to share recommended favorites.
Fuller’s London Pride
Kevin Sondey, Director of Brewing Operations at Catawba Brewing Co. in Morgantown, North Carolina
“My favorite pale ale remains Fuller’s London Pride. It’s hardly what one considers a pale ale by American craft-beer standards, but it’s a great example of an OG pale ale: balanced, clean, and drinkable, by a classic brewery in England. A pint of tradition.”
Boneyard Bone-a-Fide
Daniel C. Sharp, PhD, Director of Brewing Operations for Ninkasi Brewing Company in Eugene, Oregon
“The crew at Boneyard is always doing great stuff. Their Bone-a-Fide pale ale is solid and gives the classic Old School pale-ale style a New School taste. It hints at the New England–style IPA category but with some finesse and toned down to pale-ale specs. They nailed it.”