117. Sierra Nevada Pale Ale

Sierra Nevada Pale Ale

Company info:
Sierra Nevada Brewing Co.
California, U.S.A

[No website listed on bottle]

Bottle size sampled: 355 mL

Alcohol: 5.6%
Standard drinks: 1.6

Cap type: Non-twist

Cost: I picked this up for $4.75 AU

Label info: ‘Sierra Nevada Pale Ale is a completely natural ale. There are no additives; only the finest malted barley, whole hops, brewer’s yeast, and crystal-clear water. The fine layer of yeast in each bottle is a result of the traditional bottle-conditioning process that produces carbonation naturally’.

What the label really means: I really appreciate this label reinforcing how fresh and natural the beer contained within is. Whoever said alcohol is evil needs to get their head examined. Not drinking this beer is the equivalent of clubbing three seals to death. Fact.

The Hell-Cat review starts here

Label: I love this label. It has a certain story-book / fairy tale feel to it and it speaks of greatness. It looks traditional, it looks inviting, it serves as a good reminder of the brew’s au naturale intent.

I saw this beer in a film a few months back; a quick flash of the label from the side. And while I’ve never tried this brew, I’ve certainly seen it in the fridge in many US stores. Seeing the quick flash of the label in a film, I knew exactly that this was a Sierra Nevada Pale Ale. A quick Google search later and my suspicion was confirmed. For creating instant brand recognition alone, this label is brilliant.

I give it a label rating of 7.5 out of 10.

AROMA:  It’s pleasantly hoppy with a dusky, musky tinge.

Taste: GLASS – I found it surprising that this pale ale is a tad dry on first taste. I guess with all the talk of crystal clear water and the image of a beautiful river I expected a refreshing punch in the gob. But what it lacks in refreshment it makes up for with a strong hoppy, back of mouth bitterness that elevates this brew into damn fine territory. A strong and punchy drop that is very, very delicious.

I give it a beer from glass rating of 8 out of 10.

Taste: BOTTLE – Just as good from the bottle, Sierra Nevada Pale Ale has enough strength in flavour to carry it along beautifully. The fact that it’s a nice fat bottle helps the experience as it’s just so enjoyable to hold. This is the size all beer bottles should be.

I give it a taste from bottle rating of 8 out of 10.

Song of choice: Try this alongside Jack Johnson’s ‘Flake‘

Accompanying food: As always I’m biased by the food I’m eating for dinner, but I do believe this beer would suit the salty spiciness of Mexican cuisine.

Best season to appreciate: Tastes to me like this here is a good Summer brew. Yessir. 

All-nighter beer? It sure is. The more of this beer I tasted, the more it grew on me and the more I longed for more.

NEXT WEEK: Innis & Gunn Original