What Our Panel Thought
Aroma: “Clean citrusy hops aroma with a slight malt sweetness. Woody, floral hops with a light citrus edge evoke orange peel, mild vanilla, and black pepper. Perfume-like aromatics—very floral. Light bready malt notes in the back. Grapefruit comes out as it warms. Nutty yeast aromas and spicy phenolic notes. Esters of pear or plum.”
Flavor: “Slightly bready malt bill balanced to style by classic West Coast citrusy hops. Spicy, almost Belgian phenolic yeast character with a light wheat tartness, decent floral hops flavor under the spice, pineapple. Peach and cranberry notes. Malt is bready and slightly sweet with a clean finish. Lingering bitterness in finish without harshness.”
Overall: “Good example of a West Coast pale ale in terms of hops character and overall balance. Leans toward the phenolic character of a Belgian pale ale, but very tasty. Caramel sweetness may be a bit high for style, but the layers of malt and ester flavors add interest. A full-flavored, excellent choice to pair with richer dinners.”
What the Brewers Say
“SweetWater 420 Extra Pale Ale is a tasty West Coast Style Pale Ale with a stimulating hops character and a crisp finish. Brewed with Munich, 40L, and 2-Row malts and Centennial and Cascade hops.”