Pinball Wizard American Pale Ale

Clifford Brewing's Pinball Wizard American Pale Ale really stuck out to me on Bar Volo's always excellent draught list on a nice May evening, thanks in large part to my fervour for another of their offerings, the Clifford Porter. At 5.7% alcohol, this Wizard is nicely weighted, and with a dusty golden appearance, it looks the part. My draught arrived with a substantial layer of off-white head and a mild, citrus hop aroma.

With a thin, wispy body, Pinball Wizard doesn't feel substantial, though it sure is easy to drink. I was hoping to reference The Who's classic tune, and fortunately this beer made it easy, since "there has to be a twist"...of orange. It finishes bitterly with a fair bit of citrus rind moxie.

Crisp and fresh, this beer has a lot to offer, in a mild, unassertive package. Not as elite as the Porter, this stuff is still a solid offering from a strong brewery.

Rating: 8.0 out of 10.