While no longer a novelty, it’s still fun to behold a canned craft beer. What’s even better is discovering the beer inside to be quite excellent, like Phoenix Pale Ale. In the glass it pours clear and diluted amber in color, with an off-white, frothy crown. The bouquet is subtle, with hints of crushed pine needles and somewhat pungent earthy notes. While the aroma is subtle, the flavor is assertive, opening with big but not-too-sweet malt characters of dry caramel, plus plenty of hops to balance and refresh. The hop bite is firm, with an interesting piney flavor coming through. Phoenix Pale Ale is a refreshing, medium-bodied beer, with both smooth carbonation and low alcohol.
