Paperback Brewing — The Surrealist (Belgian-Style Blond Ale)
-
ABV: ~6.5% (Typical for style)
-
Style: Belgian-Style Blond Ale
-
Format: 16oz Can / Draft
Overview
Known for their cinematic, pop-culture-inspired branding, Glendale and La Crescenta’s Paperback Brewing crafts a thoughtful nod to classic European brewing traditions with The Surrealist. This Belgian-style blond ale balances light, fruity esters with a soft, complex malt bill, offering an approachable yet intricately layered drinking experience.
Tasting Notes
-
Appearance: Pours a hazy, glowing golden-straw color with an active, pillowy white head that leaves delicate lacing down the glass.
-
Aroma: An inviting bouquet of bright pear, green apple, and subtle banana esters meshes with spicy Belgian yeast notes of clove and white pepper. A gentle touch of bready, honeyed pilsner malt grounds the nose.
-
Palate: Crisp and refreshing upfront, quickly opening up into a complex middle. Flavors of sweet citrus peel, soft pear, and cracked pepper dance over a smooth, crackery malt foundation. There is a faint hint of bubblegum and herbal hops on the backend, adding depth without overwhelming the delicate profile.
-
Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a lively, effervescent carbonation that dances on the tongue. It finishes dry, clean, and crisp, leaving a lingering trace of spicy yeast and honeyed malt.
The Verdict
The Surrealist is a brilliant execution of a classic style, offering the intricate fruit and spice notes characteristic of Belgian yeast while remaining exceptionally drinkable and balanced. It’s an ideal choice for craft beer enthusiasts looking for something complex yet refreshing, pairing exceptionally well with artisan cheeses, roasted poultry, or warm afternoon weather.
Please Note: To ensure absolute freshness and optimal storage conditions, all craft beer is sold exclusively in-store and is not available for online ordering.
Available at SF Tequila Shop
Exploring the dynamic craft beer scene of San Francisco, one pint at a time. From hoppy IPAs to rich stouts, we’re dedicated to uncovering the best local brews. We believe in the power of community and the unique stories behind every bottle. Our mission is to share our passion for craft beer with the Bay Area and beyond.