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27th January 2025

West Coast Pale Ale (WCPA) is a style of pale ale that originated in California in the 1980s. It’s characterized by its high hop aroma and flavour, low malt sweetness, and high bitterness.

History

The first West Coast Pale Ale was brewed by Ken Grossman and Paul Camusi at the Russian River Brewing Company in Santa Rosa, California. The beer was originally called “The California Pale Ale,” but was later renamed to “West Coast Pale Ale” to reflect the style’s origins.

Characteristics

West Coast Pale Ales are typically made with pale malt and American hops. The hops used are typically high in alpha acids, which give the beer its bitterness. The beers also tend to have a high alcohol content, typically between 6% and 7%.

Flavour Profile

West Coast Pale Ales are usually bitter, with a strong hop aroma and flavour, malt characteristics are low and the beers often have a dry finish.

Popular Examples

  • Russian River Brewing Company’s Pliny the Elder
  • Sierra Nevada Brewing Company’s Pale Ale
  • Firestone Walker Brewing Company’s Union Pale Ale
  • Lagunitas Brewing Company’s IPA
  • Deschutes Brewery’s Mirror Pond Pale Ale

How to Drink WCPA

West Coast Pale Ales are best served cold, in a pint glass. The beers can be enjoyed on their own, or paired with food. Some good food pairings from the Taproom & Kitchen menu include:

  • Spicy food – Honey chilli & cheese garlic pizza bread
  • Barbecue – Flat iron steak
  • Pizza – Three Little Pigs
  • Burgers – Breaded satay Tempeh burger

So…

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