Sample at the brewpub: Slightly hazy deep orange, topped by a thin white head. Mild, perfumy aroma with some tangerine citrus notes. Light bodied with an odd grainy flavor in the forefront. Papery and cheap malts notes come through, plasticy phenols, or something as well. Then the bittering hops peak their heads through, "saving" the flavor a bit. Mildly resiny, yet it remains one-dimensional. I happened to enjoy the sample of the Rail Trail Pale Ale a bit more upon my visit there.

sampler @ brewery - clear, dark orange with spotty white head; strong, sweet hop aromas; drinks crisp and almost all bitter; very little sweetness, but still reasonable smooth; aromas are in your face, but it ends up quite drinkable and enjoyable

Growler from yobdoog (thanks!). Poured a medium and murky amber color with a small sized off white head. Aromas of earthiness, grains, and some light floral hops. Tastes of lighter earthiness, cereal, with light caramel.

Date: 04/21/2008
Mode: Growler
Source: Tasting, Cellar Party

Appearance: cloudy dark orange, wispy off white head, bits of drippy lace,
Aroma: sweet crystal malt aroma with earthy hops,
Flavor: rich caramel malt flavor with a touch of crystal sweetness, lots of earthy hops keep it dry, light bitterness, hint of caramel sweetness comes in at the very end,
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Date: 04/23/2008
Mode: growler

a good basic IPA but a bit too much on the dry earthy side for me

Aroma: 6/10; Appearance: 7/10; Flavor: 6/10; Palate: 6/10; Overall: 12/20
Rating: 3.1/5.0
Drinkability: 7/10
Score: **/4

Pours a hazy copper color with a white head. Aroma is grainy, biscuit, caramel, and sweet fruity hops. Flavor is malty, grain, biscuit, caramel, and sweet fruity hop finish.