Beyond the Pale

Hops and Grain Brewery might be on a roll. Hot on the heels of the release of Porter Culture last fall, H & G will be offering its first year-round draft beer – A Pale Mosaic. Thanks to some brewery upgrades and long-term contracts to purchase Mosaic hops, the previously limited-edition release is poised to be your go-to.

A Pale Mosaic debuted at the Austin Beer Guide release party at Draught House Pub and Brewery last week, followed shortly by a tapping at Michi Ramen. It will be on tap at Craft Pride and Banger’s Sausage House and Beer Garden this week.

Brewmaster Josh Hare explains that A Pale Mosaic starts with a German pale ale malt base and small amounts of Vienna malt for breadiness and body. The beer gets its name from the Mosaic hop, which is relatively new in the brewing scene. It’s known for its oiliness and notes of pine resin and grapefruit pith. The beer, which uses 80% Mosaic hops, also includes a 20% blend of some of Hops and Grain’s favorite complementary hops.

A Pale Mosaic is definitely not your average pale ale. The beer has a slightly fruity aroma, which complements the earthy flavors of each sip. The aroma and taste are mild and work together, creating a harmonious taste. As a pale ale, the beer has a moderate hoppiness, but doesn’t near the bitterness of an IPA. A smooth finish follows every tantalizing sip. A Pale Mosaic has a golden copper hue, and is pale and cloudy in the glass. Of course, you’re likely to spend more time looking at the remaining suds as you wait for your next pint.