Tasting Notes and Review for Budweiser American Ale from Anheuser-Busch

Budweiser American Ale is a bold step for Anheuser-Busch to take with their flagship brand. The implications to their beloved Budweiser is a conversation for another place but it is worth noting the significance of the move. Is the beer itself is a little less impressive as the branding?

First Tasting - from a bottle at Anheuser-Busch's tasting room in St. Louis, Missouri, May 2008. The brewmaster told us that this wasn't necessarily the final recipe. The beer pours with a thick, rocky head that sits atop a very clear, copper body. Its aroma is mostly sweet malt with some citrusy hops apologetically peeking through. The flavor follows this theme with strong, nutty malt flavors dominating and some hops. The ale is drinkable but could easily become cloying after a couple.

Second Tasting - from a bottle at my home. It was shipped to me from Anheuser-Busch in August 2008 in anticipation of the September 2008 release. The ale pours with clear, light copper body, lots of big bubbles and a medium off-white head with some rockiness. The nose is mild and malty with hints of fig. Tasting the beer presents the expected straight ahead maltiness. But this malty beginning is pierced by a bright hoppy finish that lingers on the tongue. Well balanced and very enjoyable. Upon this tasting I upgraded my rating from 2.5 stars to 4.

Have you tried Budweiser American Ale? Are you looking forward to trying it? Let us know what you think.