Hello again guys.  It’s good to be back.  I am ready to get back on track with another beer review and I hope you all are too!!!

Tonight, I’m going to be posting my review of the Great Lakes Burning River Pale Ale made by the Great Lakes Brewing Company located in Cleveland, Ohio.

As I’m sure that you are well aware, Great Lakes is steadily gaining momentum nationwide as a brewery that produces some spectacular stuff. 

Let’s get right to the commercial description from the website, greatlakesbrewing.com.

An assertively hopped American pale ale with citrusy and piney Cascade hops.

I guess they are going to let the beer do the talking, huh?

This brew has an ABV of 6.0% and comes in a 12 oz. bottle.

The beer appeared a clear, golden, orange color with some beautiful yellow and burnt orange highlights at the bottom of the glass.  A very nicely sized, off white, creamy, soft cap holds tight for a good, long while and finally settled to a smooth film on top.  All the while leaving some thin lacing behind for me to enjoy.

The aroma began with a satisfactory “earthy” hop tone followed by some grassy notes and fruity peach citrus.  The citrus seemed to be held back a touch, although it was still easily identifiable and pleasant.  While the beer was still chilled, a floral fragrance swirled about and brought further joy to my nostrils.  Hiding underneath was a very adequate malty backbone of caramel sweetness, some bready notes and doughy biscuits.  The aroma remained consistent throughout the entire experience.

I thought the taste revealed more of the malty characteristics than did the smell.  The caramel sweetness eased its way to the forefront, followed quickly by the bread and biscuit savors juxtaposed with a light hint of butter.  The citrus was not to be denied though as quick pinches of grapefruit and peach stood their ground.  The “grassiness” was duly noted, however it was not an overabundance.  This brew definitely had a sturdy amount of bitterness and hop bite within the taste.

The mouthfeel was a solid medium.  It was chewy, crisp, smooth, dry and somewhat sticky.  It had a commendable carbonation level and an acceptable dose of flavor was left behind until the next sip.

Without a doubt, another great brew from Great Lakes.  For me, one of the better Pale Ales out there.  It’s easily drinkable, valid all around, fun to drink and worth a try.  I believe I could sip on this as my primary beer for an evening with no problem what-so-ever.  I can’t say that it is overly complex or that it totally blew me away in any category, but it just seemed to hit the spot I guess.  I would definitely recommend this beer to anyone.  Be sure to give it a try if you see it.

Thanks guys.  I appreciate all the comments that have been coming in.  Don’t be afraid to voice your opinion.
Cheers.

Score:  4.0 out of 5
Grade:  B+