Fireman’s #4
Brewery: Real Ale Brewing Co
Style: Blonde Ale (18A)
Package: 12oz Bottle
Purchased: Left at my house by a guest
Best By Date: 1/30/2019
Consumed Date: 12/30/2018
Details from the Brewer
ABV:5.3%
IBU: 23
OG: 12*P
Named as a tribute to our good friends (and bad ass bike makers) at Firemans Texas Cruzer and because it was the fourth year-round beer we created, Firemans #4 is our most popular and best-selling beer to date. With an ever-drinkable balance of smooth malt and zesty hops, this refreshing blonde is perfect on a hot day or paired with spicy food. It’s no wonder why so many Texans love it.
Review
Aroma – 8/12
A low-moderate grainey crackery malt character meets the nose first. A similar intensity floral, earthy hop character is also present. There’s a low citrus note. No noticeable alcohol or fermentation character.
Appearance – 2.5/3
Pours a deep straw, almost light gold liquid. White medium sized bubbles form a 1cm head, which lasts with average retention. Clarity is good, but noticeable dregs are roused with the pour and create floaters in the beer.
Flavor – 12/20
A medium light crackery and grainy malt flavor hits first. This is joined by a floral hop note, that drifts into grapefruit. A low-moderate bitterness comes out in the midtaste as the other flavors start to fade. Not much is left on the finish, but a lingering bitterness and a touch of grassy hops. Slight minerality on the finish.
Mouthfeel – 4/5
Medium bodied. Moderate carbonation that prickles the front of the mouth. Very little alcohol warmth. No astringency
Overall Impression – 7/10
A good representation of the blonde ale style. No glaring faults are present. I enjoyed the touch of what seemed like pilsner malt, but felt that it died too quickly in the flavor. There doesn’t seem to be much interesting going on with the hops either. While more traditional, some of the better blondes I’ve tried recently incorporate a portion of newer varieties.
Rating – 33.5/50
The nose on this was similar to some of the lagers I’ve reviewed this year, which was interesting. I haven’t had this beer at home in quite a while. Usually, I’ll grab it at a concert venue or occasionally at a non-beer oriented restaurant. It does pair really well with a lot of foods, and is an easy beer you don’t have to “think” about. That said, I feel like it’s starting to get left behind as styles are changing.
