8.1% ABV | 19.1 degrees Plato (OG)

Avery Brewing Company Ale to the Chief is around for a third term. Don’t worry, there’s no dictatorship here — it’s all about democracy. In that spirit, this isn’t the first time we’ve written about Ale to the Chief. Four years ago, PorchDrinking’s own chief wrote a blurb about Avery’s Ale to the Chief, but there’s a new political and beer climate around, it’s time for a new voice. It’s time for my voice. It’s time for change!

[Balloon Drop]

Ale to the Chief celebrates democracy with its equal balance of malt and hops as an American Pale Ale. But, in this writer’s view, while it tries to remain a moderate, an independent, a non-partisan beer, it leans a bit to the hops; Ale to the Chief embodies the last few decades of American craft with a noticeable hop presence. Nonetheless, the malt is far from hidden. In fact, the dark Munich malt used in this beer almost reminds one a bit of a Märzen — not nearly as bready, but it hints at that Oktoberfest type of quality. Given elections occur in the fall, that seems like a nice touch.

During an election year riddled with scandal, controversy and downright bizzaro-world characteristics, this is a beer one can settle down with in a comfy chair and forget about all of life’s stresses. Yes, the ABV is at 8.1%, so that helps. But, the true comforting nature of his beer lies within its taste and familiarity. Beer tends to be pretty innovative and experimental these days, but this one brings drinkers back to the center – it’s just a good old fashioned pale ale that provides a nice dose of hops — not too much, but just enough.

In the end, Avery has made American Pale Ale great again. In fact, it’s delicious.

For the geeks:

• Hops: Cascade and Bravo

• Malt: 2-Row (let’s call it Democrat and Republican), C-120, Gambrinus Honey Malt and Gambrinus Dark Munich.

The man who hosted a beer summit and brewed White House craft beer is leaving office, but Avery isn’t going anywhere. Ale to the Chief is ready for your vote. It’s only available every four years, so it’s time to stock up. You might even want to throw an Ale to the Chief party. I mean, what else is (electoral) college for?

---

Can't visit the site everyday like us? Bummer! No worries, we've got you covered. Submit your email below to receive our monthlyish newsletter on reviews, tours, events and more!

Email address:

Leave this field empty if you're human: