89 Pike Naughty Nellie Ale, Pike Brewing Co. (WA). 4.7% ABV (3/10)
Golden amber color. Bright aromas of peach butter and orange marmalade on sourdough bread toast follow through on a round, supple entry to a dryish medium body with nice creamy citrus soufflé, toasty bread crust and roasted nut notes. Finishes with a long, citrus peel and pinecone-accented fade. A smooth, flavorful beer.
88 Cascade Ale, Deschutes Brewery (OR). 4.5% ABV (3/10)
Lightly hazy golden amber color. Aromas of apricot yogurt and toasted sourdough bread follow through on a soft, supple entry to a dry light-to-medium body with toasty bread notes coming to the fore. Finishes with a nice interplay of slightly sour, grilled lemon rind and grassy earth notes.
88 Double D Blonde, Hop Valley Brewing Co. (OR). 5% ABV (3/10) %{Brewpub}
Rich old gold color. Bright crusty toast, orange marmalade and peach butter aromas follow through on a round, supple entry to a dryish medium body with excellent smoothness and balance. Finishes with a long interplay of toasty baguette, citrus peel, and earthy hops. A very nice, hoppier take on the golden ale style that will go great with food.
83 Monumental Blonde Golden Ale, Bastone Brewery (MI). 5% ABV (2/09) %{Brewpub}
Brilliant light golden color. Aromas of earthy carrot, turnip and wet grain husk follow through on a round entry to a dryish light-to-medium body with grilled apple and orange notes. Finishes with an astringency veggie, mossy, and tin-accented fade.
82 Emerald Isle Blonde Ale, Govnor’s Public House (IL). 4.78% ABV (2/08) %{Brewpub}
Lightly hazy pale amber color with a nice head. Dried fruit, caramel and baguette aromas. A brisk, frothy entry lead to a tangy medium body of bitter orange and apricot marmalade on rye toast flavors with a sharp, somewhat vegetal finish.