Hardywood Park Capital Trail Pale Ale
Richmond, VA’s Hardywood Park creates some truly magical beers, many of which I’ve enjoyed through the past couple of years. While most folks I know tend to favor their bigger, barrel-aged brews, I consistently find myself gravitating to their Singel and Capital Trail Pale Ale. Regarding the creation and purpose of this particular brew, the following comes from the company’s website:
This beer is dedicated to the hard work of the volunteers and supporters of the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation. Joining the historic and current capitals of Jamestown and Richmond, the Virginia Capital Trail will provide 50+ miles of cycling, running and walking paths through stunning cities, parks and wilderness in the heart of the Old Dominion. Your purchase of this beer supports the Virginia Capital Trail Foundation.
Not only does this beer serve a community purpose, but it’s quickly becoming my favorite Virginia-brewed pale ale and quite possible the best brewed example of the style in the state. AT 5.6% ABV and 50 IBU, the beer isn’t some extreme monster. In fact, it’s not even the hoppiest in the region. Capital Trail Pale Ale is simply the most balanced, clean drinking and uniquely flavored of its peers. It’s a beer that I have enjoyed thoroughly this year, whether grilling, relaxing or celebrating July 4th with the family (where it didn’t last long at all).
Appearance
Capital Trail pours rich amber in color with a frothy crown of beige foam that left behind trailing lacework as it dropped.
Aroma
The beer just has a lovely nose. Floral/earthy hops, grass, grapefruit, orange peel and light pine lead the way as herbal notes and lightly toasted malt follow.
Taste
The beer is just as flavorful as the aroma lets on. Fresh cut grass, pine, floral hop notes, grapefruit, light caramel and smooth, bready notes combine for a beer that is wonderfully balanced and even-keeled. There’s a little bit of a peppery trait to the hop bitterness that lingers, teasing the tastebuds with a moderate bite. It’s medium body and refreshing, clean finish make it a beer that can be enjoyed at just about any time of the day, with just about any meal.
Overall
There’s just something about this beer’s flavors that’s intriguing. I can’t quite put my finger on what it may be, but there’s something unique within this beer’s slightly hazy depths that I just cannot get enough of. In the past few months, it’s been the beer that I’ve raved about the most on Twitter or Vine or whatever method there is to proclaim one’s adoration for a beer. I just hope the brewery keeps producing this wonderful beer.
Rating: 4.25/5
