A few years ago, back when the craft beer scene was still burgeoning and Firestone Walker was making waves in the industry, their now-popular 805 Beer had a different name. It was known as Honey Blonde Ale, a name that reflected the beer's unique flavor profile and its origins in Firestone Walker's taprooms.
During that time, 805 Beer was not widely available outside of the Firestone Walker taprooms. It was a hidden gem, a beer that only the lucky few who visited the taprooms had the pleasure of trying. Craft beer enthusiasts would flock to these taprooms, eager to taste the latest offerings from Firestone Walker, and the Honey Blonde Ale was certainly one of the highlights.
The name “Honey Blonde Ale” itself evokes a sense of sweetness and lightness. It was a perfect descriptor for the beer, as it was brewed with a touch of honey, resulting in a subtle but delightful sweetness that complemented the crisp, clean profile of a traditional blonde ale.
I had the opportunity to try the Honey Blonde Ale during one of my visits to the Firestone Walker taproom, and it was truly a memorable experience. The beer poured a beautiful golden color, with a frothy white head that lingered for a while. The aroma was enticing, with notes of honey, floral hops, and a hint of biscuit malt.
Upon taking my first sip, I was pleasantly surprised by the balance of flavors. The honey added a touch of sweetness, but it wasn't overpowering. Instead, it blended seamlessly with the malt backbone, creating a smooth and well-rounded taste. The hops provided a subtle bitterness that balanced out the sweetness, making it a highly drinkable and refreshing beer.
The Honey Blonde Ale had a medium body and a moderate carbonation, which added to its overall drinkability. It was a beer that could be enjoyed on its own, as a refreshing beverage on a hot summer day, or paired with lighter dishes such as salads or seafood.
As time went on and the popularity of Firestone Walker grew, so did the demand for their beers. They realized that the Honey Blonde Ale had struck a chord with beer lovers, and they decided to give it a more recognizable name that would resonate with a wider audience. Thus, the beer was rebranded as 805 Beer.
The new name, 805, pays homage to the area code of California's Central Coast where Firestone Walker is located. It became a symbol of pride for the locals and a beloved beer for craft beer enthusiasts across the country. The recipe itself remained unchanged, still featuring the touch of honey that made it so unique.
Today, 805 Beer is widely available in stores and bars, allowing more people to enjoy its crisp, refreshing taste. It has become one of Firestone Walker's flagship beers, a testament to their commitment to quality and innovation in the craft beer industry.
A few years ago, 805 Beer was known as Honey Blonde Ale and was exclusively available in Firestone Walker taprooms. The name change to 805 was a strategic move to expand its reach and appeal to a broader audience. However, the beer's original recipe, featuring a touch of honey and its signature crisp, clean profile, has remained unchanged.