Yards Brewing Company is known for their commitment to brewing quality craft beers, and their India Pale Ale (IPA) is no exception. When it comes to IPAs, Yards Pale Ale stands firmly on the east coast end of the spectrum. This means that it embodies the traditional characteristics of an IPA while emphasizing balance.
One of the key elements that sets Yards Pale Ale apart is its use of traditional floor-malted English barley. This type of barley gives the IPA a distinct and firm malt character. The use of floor-malted barley adds depth and complexity to the beer, creating a solid foundation for the hop flavors to shine through.
Speaking of hops, Yards Pale Ale doesn't hold back in this department. Generous amounts of Chinook and Amarillo hops are used to impart delightful aromas of pine and tangerine. These hops bring a refreshing and vibrant quality to the beer, enhancing the overall drinking experience.
What makes Yards Pale Ale a true IPA is its balance. While some IPAs can be overly hop-forward and bitter, Yards Pale Ale finds a harmonious middle ground. The malt character provides a solid backbone, allowing the hop flavors to shine without overpowering the palate. This balance makes it a highly enjoyable and approachable IPA for both seasoned craft beer enthusiasts and those new to the style.
Now, let's dive a bit deeper into the characteristics that make Yards Pale Ale a standout IPA:
1. Malt Character: The use of traditional floor-malted English barley gives Yards Pale Ale a distinct malt character. This maltiness adds depth and complexity to the beer, providing a solid foundation for the hop flavors.
2. Hop Aromas: Yards Pale Ale showcases the vibrant aromas of Chinook and Amarillo hops. These hops bring forward notes of pine and tangerine, creating an enticing aroma that invites you to take a sip.
3. Balanced Flavor: What sets Yards Pale Ale apart from some other IPAs is its emphasis on balance. The malt character and hop flavors are carefully crafted to create a harmonious blend. The hops provide a pleasant bitterness without overwhelming the palate, allowing the malt character to shine through.
4. Approachability: Yards Pale Ale is a great IPA for both IPA enthusiasts and those new to the style. Its balanced flavor profile makes it approachable and easy to drink, while still offering the hop-forward qualities that IPA lovers seek.
Yards Pale Ale is indeed an IPA. It embodies the traditional characteristics of the style while emphasizing balance. The use of floor-malted English barley, generous amounts of Chinook and Amarillo hops, and a focus on harmony make it a standout IPA that is both approachable and flavorful. So, if you're a fan of IPAs or looking to explore the style, Yards Pale Ale is definitely worth a try.