“Orange X is a fresh new take on our classic extra Pale Ale. We combined the crisp, light balance and generous hop profile of X – Extra Pale Ale with the bright, juicy citrus character of oranges as a tasting room exclusive here in San Diego. The positive response was so overwhelming that we decided to trust in our fans by putting it into cans. Orange X for the people!”
Served in a shaker. It pours a somewhat hazy golden amber hue with a thumb of foamy and well retained head perched on top. It’s working a nice webbed lace as it subsides.
The aroma is incredibly juicy, very citrusy and summery. The fruity sweetness is certainly more artificial than fresh, reminds us of these blood orange-flavoured sparkling sodas we’re keen on. Kind of has this Fanta and Sunkist accent to it as well. Also getting hints of tang, citrus rind and a touch of pine. Nothing overly exciting happening there.
We’d have to say this orange soft drink flavour is displayed much better on the palate. Very sugary sweet and citrusy with a kind of tangy edge. Soft orange blossom florals coming through the middle with a somewhat biscuity malt developing late. A gentle citrus peel bitterness then rolls in to a tangy, piney and slightly peppery finish.
The texture is nice and light, sparkling and vibrant. Mild-moderate in weight with an approachable 24 IBU. Highly crush-able!
Not totally overwhelming but it’s a nice seesional pale ale on this warm late Spring arvo….would be even more sessional in Summer! It’s not a bad beer by any means it’s just lacking a bit of pizzazz. We’ve had better from Alesmith.