In a blind tasting by BJCP trained experts, this beer rated

88

Stone Brewing Company Pale Ale

Aroma: “Delicate floral element almost makes up for lack of aromatic volume. Very faint nose, with mild apricot, peach, and citrus. Clean yeast aromatics. Malt has a biscuit character, verging on caramel and dark bread with a bit of orange blossom honey.”

Flavor: “Rich bread and caramel/burnt sugar malt flavors underpin a slightly woody, resinous, and crisp hops flavor that’s much more assertive than in the aroma. Bitterness hides just underneath the malt richness, giving support without lingering in the finish. Carb and balance are spot on.”

Overall: “A rich full-bodied pale ale that seems like a perfect beer to drink in a basement pub. Lots of English notes (sweeter, fuller body, and woody hops), but with an American level of bitterness. Clean fermentation, big and interesting malt character. A really well designed APA that needs a bit more hops on the aroma. Stone fruits are a bit unusual for APA.”

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