Review: Iron Pig Pale Ale by Orange Snail Brewers

We all have that friend or work colleague who isn’t into the world of craft beer, and you want to convert them.

Or, they’re just fed up seeing their money go to some big faceless multinational but are intimidated with what’s available. Iron Pig Pale Ale from Orange Snail Brewers is an easy drinking gateway pale ale for those not acquainted with craft beer.

As its name suggests, the Iron Pig is a pale ale, with a hazy pale gold colour. It comes in session strength at 5% ABV, so it won’t knock you over like a double IPA or Imperial Stout.

There are a lot of offerings in this category, for example Amsterdam Blonde, or Beau’s Lug Tread. Both are big sellers for their respective breweries, and cater perfectly to the middle of the road drinker.

Flavour wise, this has more of a pale malt taste. I’m getting mostly biscuit, and a bit of tropical fruit with a slight citrusy finish from the hops used.

Hop heads are going to be bored with the Iron Pig – the 16 Jasper IPA I recently reviewed is a much better choice for those who like their beer hoppy.

That said, the Iron Pig is a pleasant tasting pale ale. It would be the perfect compliment for pretty much anything on a pub menu.

The current adjective tossed about in marketing materials from some craft breweries and taprooms is “approachability”, which fits the Iron Pig well, as the beer fulfills that mandate flawlessly.

Is it something I’ll reach into the fridge for to drink myself?  Probably not – the 16 Jasper is more my speed. But if I have friends over and I don’t know whether they are into craft beer or not, I’d offer the Iron Pig without hesitation.

The Iron Pig is a available at Orange Snail Brewers in Milton as well as on tap at select pubs, bars and restaurants in Halton region as well as in cans at the LCBO.

• Style: Pale Ale
• ABV: 5%
• IBU: 28
• Taste: Malt, biscuit, citrus
• Rating: 3.9/5
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Bill Smith

Bill Smith is a storyteller, writer, blogger, photography geek, ski bum, explorer and outdoors enthusiast. He has been seen in Toronto, Oakville and off the beaten path. Favourite beers include well-brewed IPAs, brown ales, porters and pale ales.

Latest posts by Bill Smith (see all)

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