A text book example of the style, this beer is complex, yet simple at the same time.

Complex in the aroma and flavor profiles, as well as the fact that it is a beer with a conscience… A penny from each bottle sold is donated to the Headwaters Grant, which is dedicated to the preservation of the Brandywine Creek, the source of water used to make this beer.

Simple in the fact that the beer uses only the basic, Reinheitsgebot approved ingredients (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Reinheitsgebot), imported 2-row malts, whole flower hops, yeast and Brandywine Creek water.

Check it out here:     http://victorybeer.com/headwaters/

 

The beer pours a beautiful golden amber, with a thick, frothy head. The head fades after a few minutes, but leaves solid lacing in the glass as the beer disappears.

Aroma is on par with other pales, citrusy American hops show themselves right up front, balanced by bready malt and subtle pine.

Mouthfeel is a bit lighter than English varieties, on the lighter side of medium, nice and refreshing. Carbonation is higher than I prefer (I’m used to the English style), but right where it should be for the American side.

Flavors in the beer are solid, but not overbearing. A classic American hop flavor and bitterness are balanced out by those bready malts we found in the nose and just a little bit of caramel sweetness.

Overall, this is a dependable and solid American Pale Ale, perfect as an introduction to craft beer. There’s a reason Bill and Ron signed the label on the back of this beer, it is their flagship offering, a tribute to craft brewing itself.

 

Go find some at your local ABC store.

 

 

Enjoy!