by Partake Brewing
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Packaging
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Look
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Smell
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Mouthfeel
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Taste
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Overall Score: 2.42
★★★★★
Partake’s Blonde beer is a miss. Boring execution, unimaginative, and lots of off flavors. Hard pass.
Packaging
This is what happens when you put the head brewer in charge of graphic design*. The can is taupe, with the brewery name in gold in what appears to be Times New Roman font.
*I’m sure the head brewer is not in charge of the brand design, but that’s what it looks like.
Look
Poured into my glass, Blonde showcases a pleasantly golden hue, with just a hint of visible carbonation. It looks inviting, though if we’re being honest, the lack of head is a bit of a letdown. There’s no lacing to speak of, which might be the first clue that this isn’t the most robust beer on the block. Still, it has that quintessential beer color which makes me smile—at least until I take that first sip.
Smell
The aroma is, well, subtle. There’s a whisper of malt in the air, teetering on the edge of being almost too faint to notice. You won’t be overwhelmed by an aromatic bouquet—perhaps more of an aromatic flower, if that flower was droopy and missing a couple petals. If you’re chasing bright, hoppy notes or rich maltiness, you might find your nose left wanting. However, it’s not unpleasant; just not exactly memorable.
Mouthfeel
The mouthfeel is serviceable, with a medium body that doesn’t stray too far into the watery territory. Carbonation is present, but it’s perhaps too moderate. Overall, it’s a satisfying texture, but it won’t be winning any gold medals.
Taste
This is where the wheels come completely off the bus. There are definite off flavors, with some raw wort characteristic that really kills the overall flavor.
Final Verdict
Sorry, Canada, we love you, but this one’s not making it into my fridge again.
