Lord Chesterfield Ale -- Yuengling (Pottsville, PA)

It's been a while since I came across a beer that really disappointed me... but Yuengling has done it this time.  Pale in color, pale in flavor, and yet not a proper "pale ale" of either the American or India variety.

Characteristics: Gold color, average to high carbonation, light body, hoppy drive with some sharp off-notes that grab the back of the throat in the finish.

Gripes: There needs to be something to balance the hops -- the citrus of a Sierra Nevada, the body of a Samuel Smith -- but here there's nothing but more hops.

Bottom Line: This is a "flavorful" beer for those who regularly enjoy Miller High Life.  Otherwise, steer clear of Lord Chesterfield and stick to the Yuengling Lager (a nice amber variety), Black and Tan (not the same, but still tasty), or Porter (a middleweight roaster).

Rating: 3.75 / 10