A taste of… Bass Pale Ale

InBev UK Ltd.

Luton LU1 3LS

UK

Preface: This is the third of a series I call “Deli Beers.” These are bottled beers procured from what is called a “deli” (short for delicatessen – a food store that specializes in sliced meats, cheeses, bread and some dairy products, processed and canned foods.). The voyage from brewery to the consumer in a Deli is long, torturous, and not good for man, beer or beast. If a bottle of beer can survive that trial it deserves to be tasted. The third victim of my tasting notes is Bass Pale Ale. (N.B. A 12 oz. bottle of Bass Pale Ale cost me $2.10(US).

Appearance: A burnished deep copper colored moderately carbonated brew is topped with a lightly packed light tan head of medium to large bubbles. The head forms more of a foam than a traditional “lace” as it recedes.

Aroma: The first impression is a metallic tang, followed by a dusty herbaceous accent that finally picks up a touch of toffee.

Mouth feel: This is a fairly full medium body that carries the sensations after they are slaked and chilled. Chilled, and wet, the flavors are almost a pleasant surprise.

Flavor: There is a blend of apple, pear, plum and fresh grape juice all ensconced on a base note of caramel that is overtaken by that metallic clang that started in the aroma.

Finish: For all of the efforts of the malt and the slightly edgy hop flavor spike, the finish is smooth and not all unpleasant. From a surely abused bottle it is in fine shape.

Comments: Once again I must applaud a mega-brewer for pumping out a beer than can survive the brewery to Deli. This is not to say I suspect that there is more than just malt, hops, water and yeast in this product. That said, I really don’t care what they put in this brew. As familiar as I am with the draft version to this product I must note that it remains a touchstone for the style.

The Brewery: http://www.bass.com/

What others say:

BeerAdvocate:

http://beeradvocate.com/beer/profile/293/811/

ratebeer:
http://www.ratebeer.com/Beer/bass-pale-ale/133/