Boddington's Pub Ale -- Strangeways (Manchester, UK)

The gold standard by which all other cream ales must be measured.  After my recent adventure with the "Wexford" cream ale, I had to head to the source to recalibrate my tastebuds for the summer.

Characteristics: Light golden color, light body masked by the nitrogen-aided pour and thick head, light grainy flavor with the lightest touch of hops imaginable.

Minor Gripes: Sometimes drinking a Boddington's is like eating a saltine cracker.  It cleanses the palate but doesn't necessarily do anything more.   It can be overpowered by anything resembling resembling a flavor or spice -- even fish & chips if you're a fan of malt vinegar or a mild curry.

Bottom Line: Boddington's is the blonde Guinness, from the widget / nitro tap (I have yet to see it hand-pumped in the US) to the smooth almost non-flavor -- and I do mean that as a compliment.  Those looking for a smooth alternative to a pilsener would do well to try Boddington's; folks who live for over-hopped ales need not apply.

Rating: 6 / 10

Technorati: Boddington's, Cream Ale, Manchester