Rating: 8/10
Style: American Pale Ale
ABV: 5.7%
If you’re into craft beer and haven’t tried Free State’s Copperhead Pale Ale yet, you’re in for a treat! This Kansas brewery has really made a name for itself, and the Copperhead is a solid entry in their lineup. It’s the kind of beer that strikes a nice balance between hop-forward flavor and easy drinkability—ideal for a casual night with friends or even pairing with food.
Appearance
The first thing you’ll notice is its stunning amber color. It’s got a rich copper hue (true to its name!) with a slight haze, and the head is creamy with a nice off-white color. It laces the glass decently as you drink, which is always a plus in my book.
Aroma
The aroma is inviting—immediately, you’re hit with a fresh burst of citrus and pine, thanks to the Cascade hops. There’s also a slight caramel malt sweetness in the background that gives it a balanced nose. It’s not overwhelming, but it lets you know you’re about to sip something flavorful.
Flavor
On the first sip, the hops come through front and center, delivering a clean bitterness that’s just right for an APA. There’s a noticeable grapefruit and orange zest bite, which gives it that bright, refreshing quality. The malt backbone is present but doesn’t dominate, allowing the hops to take the spotlight. You get a hint of biscuity malt and caramel sweetness that smooths out the bitterness, making it easy to keep coming back for more.
Where Copperhead Pale Ale really shines is in its balance. The bitterness is there but not overpowering, so you can have a couple of pints without feeling overwhelmed by the hops. It’s the kind of beer that hopheads will enjoy, but even those who aren’t into super hoppy beers can appreciate the smoothness and drinkability.
Mouthfeel
Medium-bodied, with moderate carbonation, it feels crisp and refreshing on the palate. There’s a slight dryness in the finish, which I personally love because it keeps you reaching for another sip. It doesn’t weigh you down like some heavier pale ales, making it a good choice for a session beer.
Negatives?
If I had to nitpick, I’d say that Copperhead Pale Ale could benefit from a touch more complexity in the malt profile. While it’s well-balanced, some might find it leans a little too heavily on the hops without much depth in the malt character to really make it stand out from other pale ales. Also, the bitterness might be a bit much for those who prefer a sweeter or maltier beer. But for fans of hop-forward beers, that might not be a bad thing at all.
Overall Impression
Free State Copperhead Pale Ale is a rock-solid example of an American Pale Ale. It’s approachable, refreshing, and flavorful without going overboard on bitterness or alcohol content. Whether you’re just getting into craft beer or you’re a seasoned hop lover, this is one you’ll want to keep in your rotation. It’s versatile enough to enjoy on its own or paired with a burger or spicy dish.
If you’re in the mood for a straightforward, well-executed pale ale with bright citrusy hops and a touch of malt sweetness, Copperhead is a great choice. It’s not the most complex beer out there, but sometimes you just want something tasty and reliable, and Copperhead definitely delivers on that front.
If you’ve tried a Copperhead, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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