#30SecondBeerReview · #FPLBeerClub
Railroad Red
California Coast Beer Company — Paso Robles
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 recommend trying it
Tasting Notes
Appearance
Deep amber to ruby red, clear, with a persistent off-white head. Looks exactly like a well-made American red ale should — rich color, inviting.
Aroma
Caramel malt leads, warm and slightly toasty. Behind it, the hops come through in layers — a floral/earthy note from the Willamette, a hint of citrus from the Cascade, and a whisper of pine from the Simcoe. Nuanced and balanced rather than hop-forward.
Palate
Medium body with a smooth, caramel-sweet opening. The malt richness carries through the middle — think toffee and light toasted bread — while the hop character builds gradually. The four-hop blend keeps the palate interesting without any single variety dominating. At 28 IBU there's real bittering presence, more than the Brown Ale, but it's in service of the malt rather than competing with it.
Finish
Clean and moderately bitter, with the Simcoe pine note lingering alongside a touch of caramel sweetness. Dry enough to invite the next sip, satisfying enough to slow you down a little.
The Verdict
The name is a nod to Paso Robles' railroad history, and the beer is built to match — solid, dependable, and more complex than it looks at first glance. The hop bill here is the most interesting thing about Railroad Red: four varieties covering a wide range of character. Nugget anchors the bittering with a clean, herbal backbone. Willamette brings a classic earthy, floral, slightly spicy Pacific Northwest character. Cascade adds that familiar grapefruit-citrus brightness. Simcoe contributes pine and a touch of tropical fruit. Together they create a layered hop profile that sits comfortably behind the malt rather than out in front of it.
— Stephen · Contributing Factor Brewing · 6 Jul 2026
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