I
have visited the Oldenberg Brewing Company in Fort Mitchell, Kentucky, just
outside of Cincinnati twice, once on a brewery visit and once to attend Beer
Camp. Oldenberg's beers are well-crafted and flavorful, though it is with
their lagers that I have always felt they do best. Several of their brews
were once available in New England, but fierce competition in the craft beer
segment eventually forced them to withdraw. Since I had always enjoyed
Oldenberg beers, I was happy to receive a six pack of Pious Pale Ale, a
relative newcomer to their line, in a shipment from Beer Across America. At
the time I had never tried this one before.
In 1999, Oldenberg was purchased by Indiana's Silver Creek Brewing Company.
They wisely kept Ken Schierberg on as head brewer, and today Oldenberg beers
maintain the quality they have been famous for since the brewery opened in
1987.
Pious Pale Ale is light russet in color with an appetizing nose of malt,
yeast fruitiness, and a touch of piny Cascade hops. The malt is subtle in
the palate, where it dances with suggestions of pear and citrus. This brew
finishes nicely with a lingering hop bitterness. I'm very impressed with the
balance of this beer, the yeast esters, malt, and hops all play their parts
well but don't overpower one another. Delicious and drinkable at the same
time!
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