With the first hot weekend of the year,

I was reminded (as Al Gore has duly warned us) that our planet will explode into an uncontrollable ball of flame in the coming summer months. As we prepare for this extinction-wreaking event, we should discuss a beer that has its roots in utility, but is extremely tasty and drinkable on a hot day.

The American Pale Ale’s origins lie in British imperialism. Indeed, as ships traveled from England to places like India, settlers needed a beer that would stay fresh during the journey. This beer was a bit higher in alcohol and packed with hops, that, in addition to having wonderful spicy flavors, provided an antibacterial environment that ensured unspoiled beverages during the trans-Atlantic journey.

Flash to the mid-80’s when, with the introduction of Sierra Nevada’s Pale Ale, the beer became a very different product. With American malt, citrusy American hops, and less alcohol included, one tastes a sense of Californian freedom rather than British colonialism.

After cracking this one open, the first thing you’ll notice is its aroma. It smells (as one should expect with a pale ale) mostly hoppy, with notes of lemony citrus, and in the background a hint of pine. There is a faint sweetness and light fruitiness to be expected. In color it is an unassuming amber, with just enough orange to make the uninformed turn their noses up and say “I don’t drink dark beers, thanks.”

However, those who pass this beer up are missing out. It has a decidedly well-rounded hop flavor with healthy carbonation. While not as malty as more intense pale ales, its malt flavors and bitterness balance nicely with a hoppy finish that punctuates each sip.

Sierra Nevada is a standard that is excellent any time of year, and even better in the sweltering summer months.

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