Rogue Juniper Pale Ale

Another offering from Rogue Brewing, I'm rebelling against an Irish Stout for St. Patrick's day, but I'll settle for the green-blue of juniper and start my celebration of "Amateur Drinking Night" with Rogue Juniper Pale Ale.

Rogue Juniper Pale Ale poured a saffron-gold into the glass, topped by a thing, sticky white head and invigorated with significant carbonation. The nose was strong and piny and hinted at gin (undoubtedly the juniper), with an underlying sweetness of candied fruit.

Rogue Juniper Pale Ale hit the palette clean and crisp... no real sweetness the thicken in the mouth.  Pine, juniper, and a slightly sweet bread  backbone.  The middle of the ale was a little dusty, dry and evergreen-centric.  Juniper Pale Ale has an uniquely interesting "second wind", where after each drink there is an unexpected swell of juniper and pine.  Rogue uses the word "spicy" to describe the finish, and I can't argue... the ale ended on a spice-filled, but not aggressive, note.

I wouldn't say Rogue Juniper Pale Ale is a complex beer... in fact, it isn't.  What it is is a fantastic twist on a classic style.  The juniper is more felt than tasted, and the ale drinks amazingly smooth and easy.