Family Pale Ale Style English Bitter
Country USA (IL) ABV 4.2%
Producer Craft Brewers Alliance
Price $$ Packaging 12oz/355ml bottle
Characteristics Malty, hoppy

Overview Chicago’s Goose Island seems keen to make styles that are similar to, but generally less common than, those offered in most craft-beer lineups. Honker’s Ale, for instance, is an English-style bitter, whereas most breweries in these parts would instead offer an American-style pale ale.

Flavors and aromas A toasty, bready nose has some leafy, verdant hop character. The palate has more toasted grains, light caramel, and low bitterness and woody hops. The modest carbonation supports a creamy mouthfeel, but low bitterness doesn’t quite find balance with the malt. Our tasters found this acceptably tasty, smooth and drinkable, but not especially complex or interesting.