Best Features: unique ale, hoppy aroma

Driftwood Brewing was founded in the Spring of 2008 and is working hard to develop a good following on Vancouver Island and throughout the Lower Mainland. Although the beer is has limited availability, good sales will help bolster the availability so it is very important to promote beers and breweries like this.

Driftwood Ale is their flagship beer. It is English style pale ale that has similar characteristics of both pale ale and amber ale beers. In the glass the beer is dark in colour with a definite red/amber hue. The beige head is rich and creamy with dense bubbles that linger for an extended period of time. The thick head and dense bubbles indicate a beer that is medium in body. The aroma is very floral from the hops with a hint of sweetness from the dark malts. Reviewing the website, the hint of fruitiness in the aroma and the flavour can also be attributed to the strain of yeast that is used. On the tongue the beer is wraps the palate nicely; the initial fruitiness blends nicely with the dry characteristics of the roasted malts. The finish leaves the tongue a little dry but very satisfied (similar to a red wine). Driftwood Ale definitely has some unique characteristics that make this beer stand alone from other ales. The finish lingers for an extended period of time but your mouth is eager to taste the beer again and again until the bottom of the glass.

Driftwood Ale will work well with a variety of aggressive flavours including bold curries, peppercorn steak, wild game meats and smelly cheese. Try Driftwood with old cheddar, medium aged Gouda and blue cheese. The hint of sweetness in the beer will pair nicely with bitter flavours in all types of food.

Beer Fact: Driftwood Brewery has a simple but effective website. They have some great pictures and a video on how the brewery was built and it is definitely worth a look.