If all goes as planned I will be visiting a few breweries today in Portland, Maine. It should all make for good site content that I will be sure to share.
I went back many months to find this evaluation. It is a brewery that I would like to sample some more products from. At the very least I need to get my hands on some Old Rasputin. It is possible that I have tried it before, but I cannot remember exactly. They even do a version of it that is aged in bourbon barrels that I would love to try. The Red Seal Ale is probably the gateway beer to what they do and a pretty good one at that. It certainly does not discourage me from future North Coast beers.
Brewery: North Coast Brewing Co. (Fort Bragg, California)
Name: Red Seal Ale
Style: American Amber Ale
ABV: 5.5%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the fridge and served in a pint glass.
Aroma: Prominent, but not overwhelming citrusy hops. Light malt aroma.
Appearance: Medium coppery brown color. Very frothy, two finger high, light beige head that leaves a heavy trail. Clear with many rising bubbles visible.
Flavor: Medium to high hops with a very slight fruitiness. Low(er) malt flavor in background. Hop flavor does overwhelm the malt, but the balance is still not bad. Slight lingering hop bitterness at finish.
Mouthfeel: Medium body with medium to high carbonation. Medium length finish (not too long) and pretty smooth for the hop level(s).
Overall Impressions: More PA or IPA in flavor than expected (hoppier, but still in line with style). Enjoyable drinking experience.
Grade: B to B+
North Coast Brewing Co. - Red Seal Ale
Old Rasputin is some delicious stuff… I can personally attest to that
North Coast is one of my current favorites, glad to see you reviewing a beer that I’ve had (I mean other than Heineken >,..,< )