Longshot Wins Big - Sam Adams Grape Pale Ale

Samuel Adams Longshot Grape Pale Ale:

Sam Adams' homebrew contest winners get a batch of their winning creations produced in limited release by the brewmasters of Sam. The first one I had was the Grape Pale Ale created by Lili Hess, a Samuel Adams employee from Hawaii. Look for her face on the label, smiling proudly as well she should. This ale is pale as advertised and grape as promised.

But don't fret -- It doesn't taste like the unnatural grape flavor that makes your tongue turn purple. That strange grapeness is unwelcome here. Rather, a mildly sweet yet delightfully dry white or green grape flavor pushes back against any bitterness in this ale. In fact, the sweet and dry elements hook up for an almost champagne-like experience.

Lili's Grape Pale Ale stands strong among fruit beers (although Dogfish Head seems to have perfected the art). Sweetish and dry-like, I bet it would make a great half-and-half with Guinness. Even better, this would be great right out of the bottle. Chill this light and fruitish brew in a cooler full of ice and take it to a tailgater or a barbecue. This pale ale will appeal to beer folks as well as grape folks so go ahead and try it. It's a winner for a reason.

Samuel Adams Longshot Grape Pale Ale:

Representation: .80
Accessability: .90
Style: .85
Personal Preference: .85

Total Score: 3.4 Flags