Kona Big Wave Golden Ale

I have to admit that I thought about the review of the Portuguese wine when I picked this stuff up.

Here’s the thing: I DO think of Hawaii when I drink this, but more in a “what beer would I drink after surfing?” sorta way.

Note to self: learn to surf.

Also, “Golden Ale” is code for “Lager.”

Taste

Not bad, really. Box talks about caramel, hops, etc., but I’m thinking lager the whole time.

“lighter bodied golden ale with a tropical hop aroma and flavor.”

Misleading nose: there’s not as much hop, and the bitter aftertaste doesn’t thrill me.

Profile

4.4% ABV

Value

$7.99 for a six-pack, so you pay a premium for “Hawaii.”

Metasip Grade: B-

No cartwheels were turned in the drinking of this beer.

In retrospect, we’d probably like to try other varieties from this brewery; and they score points for “realism in distribution.” They have facilities on the mainland (Oregon, Connecticut among them), so getting you the beer without having to pay crazy amounts on freight is something they score points for.