Black Abbey “Crossroads” American Ale

This is one of those breweries who really seem to have snuck up on me. I had no idea that I had reviewed so many of their beers, and they had left such a little impression on me that I didn't remember anything good or bad about them. I mean... they're fine, right? They skew higher than average, and that means they're better than most. 

Is “clear as a pilsner” a phrase yet? Well, this yellow beer is quite clear, but it generates very little head. Also, the slippery bubbles are unlikely to leave lacing in their wake. The aroma of very bready malt mixes with lemons to the point that I am genuinely wondering if this has more in common with a pilsner than anything else.

First sip is not sufficient to dispel the notion that this is more like a pilsner than anything else. It is sweet and bready with a citrus layer. I think we may have come to the limits of my expertise with regard to beer styles. In a blind taste test, I could absolutely not tell you that this was an American Ale instead.

Tip-in is mild carbonation tingle with bread and lemons. The middle becomes a bit too watery as the carbonation takes things up a notch. The finish is moderate dryness with virtually no bitterness, and then things just kind of… end.

Bottom Line: Uninspired and inoffensive.

2.5/5