Fremont Brewing Universale Pale Ale
What the brewers say
“Universale Pale Ale offers a distinctive Northwest twist on the classic pale ale, using a select blend of pale roasted malt and Old World malts balanced with classic Northwest hops to achieve a beer of rich malt flavor and hops spice.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Enjoyable lemon and citrus hops plus a light malt sweetness. The hops aroma is a bit restrained, but piney, floral, and grapefruit rind notes come through.”
Flavor: “A slightly muted pale, with nice malt complexity and interesting hops flavors, but everything is restrained. Ripe, juicy grapefruit and pine hops notes with a bit of musk and dankness. Missing some body, causing the hops bitterness to come off slightly astringent. Completely balanced with the bitterness trailing off immediately.”
Overall: “A very well-put-together pale ale. The sweet citrus character came through nicely and the finish was great—excellent flavor and pleasantly crisp. Extremely drinkable with the only gripe being just a touch of body thinness. The well-crafted base beer uses its dry finish and balance to accentuate the ripe, juicy hops flavors.”
