Hi guys.  How’s everyone doing?  Ok, I hope.  For today’s craft beer review I’m going to be trying the ControversiALE produced by the Short’s Brewing Company located in Elk Rapids, Michigan.

I need to send a special thanks to Mr. Liquid Bread (aka. Chris Phillips) for sending me this brew along with several others from the great state of Michigan.  If you guys have a minute or two be sure to check out his video beer reviews, (http://www.youtube.com/channel/UCJjfCy8SDPNzifP5MMdRWJQ/videos), and look him up on Google+ (Mr. Liquid Bread) as well.  He has, in my opinion, the most entertaining video beer reviews on the Interwebz.

As far as the beer, I am unable to get anything from Short’s in my area, so I’m really looking forward to trying this.

From the brewers website, shortsbrewing.com, we find this bit of information regarding the ControversiALE. 

Loaded with hops like an IPA, yet drinks like a Pale Ale, we simply decided to call it a Strong Pale Ale. The fragrant, earthy citrus laced nose is instantly detectable. Large amounts of toasted grains and high alpha Simcoe hops form a perfect union that creates the cool sensation of toasted sourdough covered with zesty grapefruit hop marmalade.

Let’s pour it.

This brew comes in a 12 oz. bottle and it has an ABV of 5.52%.

It poured a semi-cloudy, deep orange to copper/red color.  It had an off white, tightly compacted cap that was a touch soapy with a combination of both large and small bubbles.  The retention time was adequate and the lacing was a tad thin, but it was clingy and it hung around for a few moments.

The smell was nice and juicy.  Aromas of pink grapefruit and very, very minor hints of orange zest.  A little bit of dank and resiny pine.  Some floral components too.  Very light touches of sweet caramel and breads, but the grapefruit was easily the forerunner.  A very nice smelling beer right here.

The taste was more of the same.  The grapefruit citrus seemed to be the strongest component with that slight undertone of fruity orange.  Even though the grapefruit was dominant, it didn’t overpower the taste buds like a typical IPA.  It was more mellow and manageable than most.  The breadiness seemed to be more noticeable however, and the caramel malts remained pushed to the side.  Again, quite piny and resiny (in a good way).  The bitterness was a sturdy medium and very enjoyable.

The mouthfeel was medium bodied.  Very dry and snappy, but somehow chewy.  I found it to be rather refreshing also.  The carbonation was good and a lot of flavor was left behind on the palate after each swallow.

I’ll tell ya.  I really, really liked this beer.  It had plenty of flavor and a very appealing bouquet.  The drinkability was outstanding and I believe this beverage would be best suited as a Spring and Summer refresher.  It doesn’t quite have the “power” that some American IPA’s have, however this one is a lot more bearable for a long session with friends.  I would love to have this brew again and I would highly recommend you guys give it a try if you are able to obtain it.  I think it’s solid enough to satisfy any hophead while still retaining a calmness that would allow a less experienced craft beer drinker to get a handle on a proper American IPA.  Again, thanks to Mr. Liquid Bread for sending me the Short’s ControversiALE.  It’s most appreciated.  Be sure to let me know what you guys thought of it if you have tried it.  I would be interested in your opinion.

Thanks for reading and commenting guys.

Until next time.  Cheers.

Score:  4.15 out of 5
Grade:  A-