Austin Street Anodyne

Anodyne is an American Pale Ale from Austin Street in Maine, listed at 5.2% ABV and 40 IBU. Those numbers place it squarely in the middle of the style: enough bitterness to keep the finish clean and dry, but well short of the resinous bite of an IPA, and light enough in alcohol to suit a second pour. At 40 IBU the bitterness should read as a firm but supportive edge rather than the headline. In the glass, expect what the style usually delivers: a golden to amber body, a hop-forward nose built on citrus and pine, and a malt backbone that stays in the background, adding a light bready or biscuit sweetness to hold the hops up. American pale ales typically lean on citrusy, piney hop varieties, so grapefruit, orange peel and a touch of resin are the likeliest flavors, followed by a brisk, medium-dry finish. The bitterness lingers briefly, which makes the beer refreshing rather than heavy. Serve it cold but not frozen, around 40 to 45°F (4 to 7°C). Straight from the back of the fridge it will taste muted; a few minutes on the counter lets the hop aromatics open up. A standard shaker pint or a nonic glass works well, and a tulip or tulip-style IPA glass is a better choice if you want to concentrate the aroma. Pour with a firm stream to build a modest head, which releases the hop oils. The moderate bitterness and carbonation make this a flexible table beer. It cuts through the fat in a cheeseburger, fried chicken or fish tacos, and the citrus character suits grilled shrimp, roasted chicken with herbs, or a margherita pizza. It also handles spicier dishes, such as Thai curries or buffalo wings, better than a malt-forward beer would, since the hops stay in balance and the low ABV doesn't amplify heat. For cheese, try a sharp cheddar or a young Gouda, where the beer's dry finish clears the palate between bites.