Beer Review: Drinking History

Jack McAuliffe is a name that most people don't recognize. He is the founder of New Albion Brewing, also not very well known, and one of the most important figures in the craft beer revolution. Unfortunately Jack's brewery lasted a very short time (1976-1982) but he is considered the first craft brewer and the man that paved the way for everyone else. His New Albion Ale is considered to be the first modern day American craft beer.

From what I can gather, it seems the story behind this is that in the early 90's Jim Koch -- Boston Beer Company (Samuel Adams) -- purchased the New Albion trademark in an effort to keep it preserved. This next part might be a craft beer urban legend but it sounds great. With a commercial trademark, you have to use it commercially to maintain it -- essentially, if you don't use it, you lose it. So Jim Koch teamed with Jack McAuliffe to recreate the brew, using the original recipe, including the original New Albion yeast strain which has been preserved at UC-Davis. Showing even more proof that he's all about the beer, all profits from this beer are going to Jack McAuliffe. Without further ado, let's get into the beer.

Samuel Adams/New Albion Ale - 6% ABV
American Pale Ale
Special Release
12 oz bottle poured into a pint glass
Best before 07/13

Appearance - Bright yellow with a thick, fluffy white head. Good retention and nice lacing.

Aroma - Smells hoppy. Lemons, grass, grapefruit.

Taste - Malty, sweet, peppery, a touch of hops and a slightly bitter finish.

Mouthfeel - Medium body, slick and oily, average carbonation.

Overall - By today's standards this is a pretty basic, pretty standard American pale ale but I can see how this would have been an extreme beer in the mid to late 70's. While it is somewhat plain, it is very well done. If this was a new beer just coming on to the market today I wouldn't give it a second thought, that being said its pretty damn cool to drink a piece of craft beer history. Like so many others, when I thought of "the beginning" I primarily thought of Fritz Maytag. If nothing else, this beer has enlightened me, and for that, I thank you Jim Koch.
Overall 3/5 Style 3/5