#30SecondBeerReview · #FPLBeerClub
Blonde Ale
California Coast Beer Company — Paso Robles, CA
Blonde Ale
California Coast Beer Company
4.2%
ABV
18
IBU
Pale golden straw
Color
Contributing Factors
Presentation
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Character
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Experience
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Return
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4 / 4
I'd order another
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Pours a clear, pale golden straw with a bright white head that settles into a thin, persistent ring. Light and inviting in the glass.
Aroma
The nose opens with a gentle waft of grapefruit pith and fresh-cut grass — Amarillo doing its characteristic thing — followed by a subtle piney, almost resinous whisper from the Chinook. Underneath it all, a soft bready, cracker-like malt base keeps things grounded and
Palate
Light and clean up front, with a delicate sweetness from the pale malt that quickly gives way to a mild citrus brightness. Amarillo lends a soft orange and tangerine note mid-palate, while Chinook adds just a touch of earthy pine on the back end. At only 18 IBUs, the bitterness is polished and restrained — more of a gentle dryness than any real bite — making this an easy-drinking, balanced beer.
Finish
Light-bodied with moderate carbonation. Crisp and refreshing, finishing clean and dry with no lingering sweetness.
The Verdict
This is a sessionable, warm-weather blonde that punches above its weight in hop character without ever feeling aggressive. The Amarillo brings the sunshine; the Chinook keeps it honest. At 4.2%, you could drink a few of these on a patio without a second thought — and that's exactly the point.
— Stephen · Contributing Factor Brewing · 12 Jun 2026
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