This beer has a history going back to 1981, and might fairly be described as "The Son of Thousand Oaks". Thousand Oaks brewery began operations in California in 1981 in the basement of the owner's home. Talk about your small brewery. Eventually, the company was sold and in 1990 a facility was established near Oakland. The name was changed to Golden Pacific Brewing Company. From humble such beginnings, the brewery has grown to a 1996 production level of approximately 10,000 barrels.
Golden Gate Original Ale is described as an American Brown Ale, but it seems to me to be more of a toasty American pale ale. It is burnt orange in color with fair carbonation and a quickly dissipating head. The nose is quite fruity, and the palate is alive with delightful pear-like esters. The grain bill is quite impressive, with crystal, Harrington, Munich, chocolate and pale malt. There really isn't much malt character to speak of though, it seems to be overwhelmed by the esters and the citric, slightly phenolic hop presence of Centennials and Willamettes. Well done!
And remember, try a new beer today, and drink outside the box.
*Pricing data accurate at time of review or latest update. For reference only, based on actual price paid by reviewer.
(B)=Bottled
(D)=Draft