Orange Blossom Cream Ale -- Buffalo Bill's Brewery (Hayward, CA / Portland, OR)

This is exactly what I want in a summer beer -- light, refreshing, slightly sweet but not cloying.  I was a little afraid at first but pleasantly surprised. Certainly more on the Genessee side of cream ales, mixed with a little Blue Moon (minus the nutmeg).  Why Portland?  The "export" brewing and bottling is handled under contract by Pyramid (home of the Apricot Hefeweizen).

Characteristics: Warm gold color (pushing orange instead of blonde), smooth and slightly sweet flavor, light body.  Brewed with honey, orange peel, and orange blossom extract.

Minor Gripes: There just aren't that many occasions when I want a light beer, and I'm not always excited by the taste of honey in my beer.. 

Bottom Line: The next time someone asks for a Leinie's Honey Weiss (or worse, a Berry Weiss), try serving an Orange Blossom Cream Ale instead.  Seriously.

Rating: 6 / 10

Technorati: Cream Ale, Oranges, Hayward, CA