Dry Dock Brewing Co., based in Aurora, Colorado, has built a solid reputation for crafting approachable and flavorful beers, and their Apricot Blonde Ale is no exception. This fruit infused ale is a refreshing take on the classic blonde style, offering a balance of simplicity and creativity that appeals to both casual drinkers and craft beer enthusiasts.
Tasting Notes
Pouring a clear, golden straw color with a thin white head, the Apricot Blonde Ale immediately invites you in with its bright and inviting appearance. The aroma is dominated by ripe apricot, with subtle hints of honey and a touch of bready malt in the background. On the palate, the beer delivers a light bodied, crisp experience. The apricot flavor is front and center…juicy and slightly sweet, but not overpowering, while the malt backbone provides a gentle, grainy sweetness that keeps the beer grounded. The finish is clean and slightly dry, with just a whisper of fruitiness lingering on the tongue. At 5.1% ABV, it’s an easy-drinking beer that’s perfect for warm weather or as a palate cleanser between heavier brews.
What Stands Out
What sets this beer apart is its restraint. Many fruit beers tend to lean too heavily on the fruit component, resulting in a cloying or artificial taste. Dry Dock, however, strikes a delicate balance, allowing the apricot to shine without overshadowing the beer’s blonde ale foundation. This makes it a great introduction to fruit beers for those who might be skeptical of the style.
Additionally, Dry Dock Brewing Co. has a unique claim to fame. It was the first brewery in Colorado to can its beers, a move that helped pave the way for the state’s thriving craft beer scene.
Ratings
Appearance: 4/5 – Clean and bright, though the head retention could be better.
Aroma: 4.5/5 – Fresh apricot dominates, with a pleasant malt undertone.
Flavor: 4/5 – Balanced and refreshing, though slightly more malt complexity could elevate it further.
Mouthfeel: 4/5 – Light and crisp, but could benefit from a touch more carbonation.
Overall: 4.1/5 – A well crafted, approachable fruit beer that’s perfect for summer sipping.
In summary, Dry Dock’s Apricot Blonde Ale is a testament to the brewery’s ability to create accessible yet flavorful beers. While it may not be the most complex offering in the craft beer world, its balance and drinkability make it a standout choice for those seeking a refreshing, fruit-forward ale.
If you’ve tried Dry Dock’s Apricot Blonde, please let us know what you thought of it in the comments section below.
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