Longboard Island Lager is an American Pale Lager that’s brewed by Kona Brewing Co., and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the lager was served in a pilsner from a 12 oz. bottle.

Packaging art for the Longboard Island Lager by Kona Brewing Co.

What You Should Know

The Longboard Island Lager is an easy-drinking, sessionable lager that’s received numerous awards. So it must be pretty good, right? Let’s get to the review.

Appearance

The Lager pours a brilliantly clear pale golden hue and is topped by a finger-thick cap of thin white froth that dissipates rapidly.

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Aroma

Sweet malt gives the aroma a scent of honey but there’s an equal measure of floral hops as well.

Flavor

The palate is led by a taste of sweet cereal grain that’s followed by a mild bite of lemon-orange citrus. Finishes with a mild dose of spicy, peppery hops that linger briefly after the tasting. Underneath that bite is a sweetened balance of honey.

Label art for the Longboard Island Lager by Kona Brewing Co.

Mouthfeel

The feel has a smooth draw that leads to a clean and crisp, dry finish. The sweetness is a little sticky through the middle and the bitterness in the finish is mild. This lager has a medium-light body and a shade over moderate carbonation.

Overall

The appearance isn’t anything you’ll recall but its aroma is pleasant enough. The feel is light, crisp, and certainly thirst quenching. The palate has enough hops to keep the tasting interesting.

Overall, the Longboard Island Lager is probably a better brew than you think. When it’s served icy cold, this beer is just so easy to tilt back again and again. Considering the style, there’s a reason why this brew has taken home more than a half dozen awards. You shouldn’t feel too badly about taking it home, too.

Recommended Pairings

Longboard Lager typically pairs well with lighter fare but has enough flavor and body to stand up to heartier foods, too. Try some with grilled chicken on mixed greens, pizza, or a sandwich.