Many members of my family went to college in Lancaster County, Pennsylvania and Lancaster Brewing Company has been a must hit spot whenever we are in the area. One of my favorites to pick up is the Amish Four Grain Pale Ale which promises to be well balanced yet complex enough for the style.

Out of the 12 ounce bottle, the Amish Four Grain has a light copper color with a slightly off-white head and leaves the expected amount of lacing on the glass. Elements of grain, rye, malt, sweet toffee, some spice and fruit elements from the hops, and a bit of earthiness. The aromas are balanced but a little sweeter than expected.

The rye hits you immediately on your first sip, this is followed by spicy hops, then balanced again with sweet malt elements. The finish is sweet but not sticky thanks to a hop burst. There are also hints of mint, bread and dark fruits. The mouth feel is smooth and the carbonation keeps things lively – certainly an extremely sessionable beer.

The balance and complexity prediction was certainly accurate as no one element overpowers or conflicts with another. The 5.6% abv is well hidden, and while complex the beer is approachable thanks to the balance that is achieved. This is one of the better session beers that I have tried, easy drinking with enough interesting elements to keep you coming back for more.

Rating

88
out of 100