Lightning Minds has been crafting exceptional beers since 2005, and in that time, the brewery has become a well-respected name in the US craft beer scene. Located in the mountains of North Carolina, this brewery has rapidly grown in popularity, expanding its reach both nationally and internationally. Known for their innovative approach to beer, Lightning Minds offers a diverse range of brews, including crowd favourites like Thunderstruck IPA, with its sharp citrus twist, and the rich, indulgent Electric Elixir Stout, which marries coffee and chocolate notes to perfection. In their pursuit of expanding the market, the brewery ventured into the non-alcoholic (NA) beer space with their Lightning Minds Pale Ale, one of their early attempts to replicate the craftsmanship of their traditional beers while eliminating the alcohol content.
This brew strives to retain the essence of the classic pale ale, while offering an alcohol-free option for those who prefer it.
But, does it manage to hold up to the standards set by its alcoholic counterparts? Let’s find out.
Appearance
Pouring this NA pale ale into a glass, you’ll notice a lovely amber hue with just a slight haze. The colour is what you’d expect from a classic pale ale – rich and inviting, with a natural depth. While it lacks the “legs” or the retention of the head that you typically find in alcoholic brews, this is quite common in non-alcoholic beers, and it doesn’t detract from the overall experience. The carbonation in this beer is good, however, providing a lively effervescence that keeps it refreshing. The head forms nicely upon pouring, but it fades gradually, maintaining a balanced look throughout the drinking experience.
Aroma
The aroma of Lightning Minds Pale Ale is a delightful mix of hops and malt. The primary scents are dominated by fresh, citrusy hops, with notes of grapefruit and lemon, giving the beer a bright and zesty smell. Beyond that, there are hints of caramel malt, adding a touch of sweetness to the overall profile. As you inhale, you also detect a subtle earthy undertone, which adds complexity to the aroma. While it doesn’t have the same intensity or depth that you might find in its alcoholic counterparts, the nose is clean, inviting, and balanced, with just enough hop character to give it the recognisable signature of a pale ale.
Taste
The Lightning Minds Pale Ale stands out for its distinctive hop-forward character. As you take your first sip, you’re greeted by a crisp, hop-driven bitterness that’s immediately complemented by a touch of malt sweetness. The combination creates a nice balance, with the maltiness giving it some depth to contrast the refreshing bitterness. The hop profile is notably zesty and citrusy, a hallmark of a well-crafted pale ale, and it provides the drinker with a clean, crisp flavour that is hard to replicate in non-alcoholic beers.
Despite the absence of alcohol, the flavour doesn’t suffer too much. While it might not be as rounded or complex as a traditional pale ale, the absence of alcohol doesn’t diminish the core characteristics of the beer. You still get that characteristic hop punch, with the malty sweetness keeping it from feeling too one-dimensional. It’s not perfect, but in terms of taste, this non-alcoholic offering is surprisingly close to its alcoholic inspiration.
Mouthfeel
In terms of mouthfeel, this NA Pale Ale strikes a nice balance. It’s not too thin, nor is it overly heavy, landing somewhere in the middle. The carbonation is lively, giving the beer a refreshing, effervescent quality that dances on the tongue. It has a smoothness that makes it easy to drink, and the slight malt sweetness adds a pleasant, rounded texture that keeps the beer feeling full without becoming cloying. The mouthfeel is one of the strong points of this beer, as it manages to maintain a satisfying level of body despite being alcohol-free, ensuring that it’s still an enjoyable experience from start to finish.
Finish
The finish of the Lightning Minds Pale Ale is clean, crisp, and refreshing, which is exactly what you want in a pale ale. The hop bitterness is noticeable, but it doesn’t linger too long, allowing for a smooth exit that doesn’t feel overwhelming or harsh. Interestingly, the finish is a little cleaner and less astringent than you might find in a traditional pale ale, which is a direct result of the alcohol removal process. While some drinkers might miss the warmth and fullness that alcohol imparts on the finish, the clean, crisp end to this beer makes it incredibly easy to drink, especially on a warm day when you’re looking for a refreshing beverage without the heaviness.
Pairing Suggestions
This NA pale ale would pair wonderfully with a variety of classic dishes, making it a versatile choice for casual occasions. I can imagine it going particularly well with a juicy cheeseburger, where the hoppy bitterness balances out the richness of the meat and cheese. It would also complement a dressed salad, providing a crisp contrast to the freshness of the vegetables and vinaigrette. Additionally, the beer’s slight bitterness would work as a refreshing counterpoint to the bold, spicy flavours of a curry, cleansing the palate between bites. The overall lightness and drinkability make it an ideal companion to comfort foods, where you don’t need a beer that dominates the flavour profile, but one that enhances the meal.
Overall Impressions of Lightning Minds Pale Ale
Lightning Minds Pale Ale is a strong contender in the non-alcoholic beer market, especially for those looking for a pale ale that stays true to the characteristics of the traditional style. While it lacks some of the depth and complexity of an alcoholic pale ale, it does an admirable job of capturing the essential elements – hoppy bitterness, malty sweetness, and a refreshing mouthfeel. The brewery’s commitment to craft is evident, and it’s clear they’ve put significant effort into making this NA offering as close to the real deal as possible.
While the beer may not have the full-bodied complexity of its alcoholic counterparts, it holds its own in the NA category. As Lightning Minds continues to refine their non-alcoholic offerings, it’s likely that their beers will gain even more depth and character. In the meantime, if you’re looking for a reliable, refreshing beer to enjoy on a warm summer’s day, this Pale Ale NA is an excellent choice. It’s well-crafted, easy-drinking, and a great example of what the future of NA beers can look like.