Mar 6, 2012

Narragansett Cream Ale

Cream Ale photo

The folks behind Narragansett’s resurrection the past few years have decided to reintroduce one of their more popular products from the 1960s and 1970s — the Cream Ale. This newer, modern interpretation “… is a throwback to Pre-Prohibition cream ales,” but with a hoppier presence that should appeal to the current realm of craft beer drinkers. I was obviously much too young for the first wave of the beer’s popularity, but I can see how this newer version has potential for being just as successful.

Brewed at a variety of locations (Trinity Brew House, Cottrell Brewery and North American Brewery), the beer is made a four different malts along with Columbus and Willamette hops for bittering and aroma. The end result is a nearly sessionable brew that is smooth and flavorful — 5% ABV and 22 IBU.

Appearance

Pale amber in color, Cream Ale rests in the glass with a dense white head that just will not die — it seems to last forever.

Aroma

The beer was a little cold initially, but after it had a chance to warm in the glass, hints of grassy hops, grain and lightly toasted bread arrived. It’s got a rather subtle nose, but is no less inviting.

Taste

A light sweetness accompanies grains and lightly toasted malt before fading smoothly to a subtle grassy hop presence in the clean finish. It’s got a pilsner like character, but with a much fuller and softer mouthfeel. The alcohol isn’t a factor in the beer’s flavor.

Overall

You know, the two tall-boy cans that I received from the company disappeared quicker than I originally thought they would. Cream Ale is a smooth drinking brew that goes down way too easy. It’s got a decent flavor profile that will neither offend nor amaze — sitting comfortably with a very approachable range of characteristics that should appeal to fans of the old recipe as well as the new.

Rating: 3.25/5

This is a review of a promotional sample received from the brewery.

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