Beer Review: Odell Brewing’s 5 Barrel Pale Ale

5 Barrel Pale Ale, Odell Brewing Company, Fort Collins

Style: Pale Ale

ABV: 5.2 percent

Serving Type: 12-ounce bottle

Malty? Hoppy? Mildly hoppy

Reviewed: October 2013

If you’re looking to add a little hop to your step, but not too much, try 5 Barrel Pale Ale. Odell’s pale ale flagship pours a murky orangey-amber, and has the rare quality of its smell—crisp, floral, with hints of apricot—closely matching its taste. The beer has a total of five hop additions in its brewing process, but somehow manages a mere 36 IBU, and is extremely well balanced. It also rings in at just over 5 percent ABV, so you can enjoy its full flavor without catching a buzz after just one glass.

We like to savor this session summertime ale when we’re feeling a bit nostalgic for warmer weather. It carries well through the transitional season between the last Rockies’ game to October’s snowfalls.

Would we buy it again? It’s a go-to when we’re in the mood for a pale ale.