Steel & Oak + BREWHALL: Almost Paradise Pale Ale

Steel & Oak + BREWHALL: Almost Paradise Pale Ale Review

New Westminster’s Steel & Oak has collaborated with Vancouver’s BREWHALL to create a refreshing summer beverage called Almost Paradise: Pale Ale W/ Citron And Grains of Paradise. The name pays tribute to one of the brew’s key ingredients, while at the same time triggering memories of two singers whose bands broke big out of Lotusland in the 70s and early 80s. Let’s see if this release also makes it to the top of the charts.

As we drop the needle, this brew pours solid (orange-tinged) gold from the count-in. Then, on the nose: strong, musky, citrusy orange notes fill the air.

In addition to hops, that will likely be due to the use of grains of Paradise, which are said to “impart a pungent, black pepper-like flavour with hints of citrus” [Wikip.]. So if you’re a fruity ale fan, this toe-tapper is off to a good start from the opening stanza.

Throws a nice head on first pour

In terms of flavour there are mild, tangy orange, lemon, tangerine and pomegranate flavours. There’s also a subtle floral hop aroma and flavour, as well as a slight oiliness on the palate. Also, the oats lend a slight silkiness in its mouthfeel.

Almost Paradise pale ale has more going on than your garden variety blonde or lager. But as described by the vendor, this chart topper is a great summer sipper. Watch out because it just might go crazy on you, and turn you loose on the patio this season.

LINKS

• https://neatstuff.steelandoak.ca/products/almost-paradise-650ml
• https://untappd.com/b/steel-and-oak-brewing-co-almost-paradise-pale-ale-w-citron-and-grains-of-paradise/4308919