Hello everyone.  For today’s craft beer review I’m going to be drinking a Full Sail IPA produced by the Full Sail Brewing Company located in Hood River, Oregon.

I tried the Full Sail Pale Ale a little while back and liked it pretty well, so I’m rather excited about sampling this one.

Here’s the commercial description from the website, fullsailbrewing.com.

Generously hopped to 60 IBU’s in the classic style, our IPA is a real thirst quencher. It has a full, malty body and there’s even a hint of fresh citrus to it. Perfect after your favorite water sport. Even if that happens to be the grueling drag-the-poolside-lounge-chair-into-the-sun event. 

Ok.  Let’s pour.

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

It poured a clear, golden color with some burnt yellow highlights around the bottom of the glass.  The crown was off white in color.  It was kind of small and kind of soapy. The retention time was not that great and the lacing was relatively meager as well.

The nose dispensed hints of citrus in the form of pear.  Touches of grain and bready malt with a light sweetness of caramel sugar.  The bouquet reminded me of a British Bitter.  Quite simple and to the point, but harmonized adequately.

The flavor was very similar to the aroma.  Touches of pear, bread and some slightly sweet caramel.  It was also somewhat earthy and grainy with a cracker/wafer taste and just a smidgen of bitterness.  It seemed to be balanced fairly well.  Overall, nothing extraordinary, but tasty enough to warrant some discussion.

The mouthfeel was medium bodied.  Dry, crisp, smooth, refreshing and thirst quenching.  The carbonation was good and a decent amount of flavor was left behind after the sip.

Well, this beer was ok.  Nothing too complicated or outstanding, but good enough for a try.  It was very similar to an ESB.  I think it could be enjoyed by most anyone, but especially those who may just be getting into craft beer.  I also think that it could be enjoyed at anytime of the year.  So, if you haven’t done so, pick a bottle of Full Sail IPA and enjoy it with a friend who may not yet know the joys of better beer.  This could be the brew that opens their eyes to a better understanding to all that’s available.

Thanks for reading and commenting everyone.  I really appreciate it.

Until next time.  Cheers.

Score:  3.45 out of 5
Grade:  B-