Buzzards Bay Brewing - Buzzards Bay Pale Ale

This Pale Ale emulates the classic pub ales of England, with an American craft brewer's twist—Magnum hops are used for bittering—while more traditional Goldings hops are used for flavor and aroma. Look for floral hops and very juicy malt scents, quite like apple and caramel. Expect a gentle spice from the Goldings hops, as they provide perfect balance against the sweet caramel and fruity malts. The firm bitterness quickly develops in the finish, clearing out the fruitier notes and leaving the palate dry and clean, ready for another sip as notes of cereal and biscuit surface toward the back, ultimately fading as the bitter Magnum hops again take over. Everything an English Pub Ale should be. Pair with sharp cheddar and saltines for a simple yet satisfying complement.

It seems fitting, given the bustling beer culture of Massachusetts, that back in the 1800s the state was known for growing some of the finest hops in the world. Buzzards Bay Brewing, a family-owned brewery based in the heart of a southeastern Massachusetts farming community, is trying to restore that reputation. Using a portion of their 140 acre farm to grow hops (not to mention barley and pumpkins) for their ales and lagers, they've literally brought hop farming back to the region. Sometime after discovering underground water springs on their farm, the Russell family set up a 50 barrel brewhouse and state-of-the-art bottling line. By winter of 1998, just five months after they began brewing operations, production reached 3,000 gallons of ale per day. In 2000 they began producing lager beer alongside English style ales. The Russells brew, bottle, and package all of their microbrews at their farm brewery. Not only are they experts in the realm of brewing, but they're also acclaimed grape-growers and vintners. Buzzards Bay Brewing's sister Vineyard and Winery, Westport Rivers Winery, is well-known throughout Massachusetts. We haven't met a brew of theirs yet that we didn't rate highly. This month, as is appropriate for summer, we're featuring a pair of brews to help you cool down—Buzzards Bay Pale Ale and Buzzards Bay Pilsner. If you can get your hands on anything from this excellent northeastern farm-brewery—buy it! They've got a great repertoire of quality beers. For more information about the brewery and scheduled tours, call (508) 636-2288 or check out their web site at www.buzzardsbrew.com.