Coronado Brewing Company- Mermaid’s Red Ale: Going back to Cali, Cali, Cali…
Friday, May 27, 2011 at 3:58PM | by Wes 
After IPA’s and PA’s, Reds are my favorite type of beer. Mermaid’s Red is one that Christina brought me back from her San Diego road trip this winter and I have been staring it down for a while. For some reason tonight I just could not ignore the Mermaid’s song any longer. If summer continues to refuse to come to Chicago then I will bring a little Cali into my living room. Suck it BS weather!
Mermaid’s Red is more of a dark orange hue with a slightly overactive carbonation level and a moderate head. I was really impressed by this brew’s profile; the aroma is very creamy with hints of roasted malt and toffee. There is also a bit of floral hops and a sweet graininess. I could easily see how this evil temptress could lure a weak-willed sailor off the virtuous path. Coronado has a sensory masterpiece here that boasts a tacit demonstration of visual and olfactory supremacy.
I was waiting to be let down because I have had bad luck lately with beer’s potential not matching its execution lately. Fortunately, that was not the case here. Mermaid Red is delicious. The flavor is full and has hints of roasted malt and creamy toffee. The end finishes slightly dry with hints of pine and citrus. This beer is spectacular and represents a welcome addition to the red ale style. Coronado has created a true nautical themed masterpiece here. Much like the myth of mermaids passed down from generations before us, this has to be seen to be believed. Catch Mermaid’s Red if you can, just make sure you don’t take your eyes to far off the shore because you might never return!
ABV: 5.7%
Consumed: Sensory Glass
Verdict: Buy a Case!
