Trail Ride is an American Pale Ale brewed by Laughing Dog Brewing, and for the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a tulip pint glass from a 12 oz. can.
What You Need to Know
The Trail Ride is a sessionable brew packed with a trio of hops whose light IBU count belies this Laughing Dog’s big bite. So how was it? Let’s get to the review.
Appearance
The Pale Ale pours a cloudy deep copper hue and is topped by an inch thick cap of soapy, bone-white foam that shows modest retention. The head’s reduction leaves behind a thin ring of bubbles.
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Aroma
The aroma isn’t particularly strong but wafts the nose with a lovely scent of pine and floral hops. A hint of toasted bread is detected as the beer warms.
Flavor
The palate is led by a taste of orange citrus blended with lightly toasted bread. The tasting crests to a hoppy bite that’s floral, herbal, and even has a light citrus. Beneath the hops is a sweet and mellow undercurrent of caramel to lightly balance the bitterness.
Label art for the Trail Ride by Laughing Dog Brewing
Mouthfeel
The ale has a smooth body with a body with a medium body and a shade-over-moderate carbonation. Its finish is relatively dry and is moderately astringent.
Overall
The appearance of the Trail Ride isn’t particularly impressive but that can be overlooked. While the aroma is pleasant it’s fairly weak and doesn’t last for very long. The palate and feel will certainly appease the hopheads. A slight malt backbone makes the brew’s balance closer to that of an IPA than a Pale Ale.
Overall, the Trail Ride is a brew that’s best consumed cold and immediate. It’s not bad for a session beer but there are certainly better options out there.
