The IPA Skeptic's Success Story: A Review of Full Nelson

Full Nelson is the flagship "Virginia Pale Ale" from Blue Mountain Brewery. It is a well-balanced American Pale Ale (APA) that famously utilizes Cascade hops grown right on the brewery's own farm in Afton, Virginia.

Score: 6.1

Location: Afton, VA

Usually, when I see "Pale Ale" on a label, I expect a bitter punch to the face that tastes like I’m chewing on a pine tree. But Blue Mountain Brewing’s Full Nelson actually surprised me. As someone who generally avoids the IPA aisle, I found this "Virginia Pale Ale" to be surprisingly approachable and, honestly, pretty good.

Here is a review from the perspective of a skeptic who might just have found a "hoppy" beer they can actually enjoy:

The "Non-IPA Fan" Review: Full Nelson Virginia Pale Ale

The Look and First Impression It pours a really nice, clear copper color with a solid head that actually sticks around. It doesn't look like that murky juice some people are into lately; it looks like a classic, well-made craft beer.

The Aroma (No, it’s not just pine needles) While there is definitely a scent of floral and citrus hops, it’s not overwhelming. I picked up a bit of sweetness in the smell almost like caramel which made me feel a lot better about taking that first sip. It smells fresh rather than medicinal.

The Taste: The "Balanced" Factor This is where it won me over. Most IPAs feel like they are trying to hide the actual beer flavor behind a wall of bitterness. Full Nelson has a strong malt backbone, which means you actually taste the grain and a bit of bready sweetness.

• The Hops: They use farm-grown Cascade hops, which give it a crisp, citrusy snap.

• The Bitterness: It’s there, but it doesn't linger forever or ruin your palate for food. It’s "sessionable," which is beer speak for "you can actually have more than one without regret."

The Verdict If you usually stick to lagers or ambers because IPAs are too aggressive, this is the perfect "middle ground" beer. It has enough flavor to be interesting but enough balance to stay refreshing.

• ABV: 5.9% (Strong enough to know it's there, light enough to keep things chill)

• Final Thought: It’s a solid Virginia staple for a reason. Even if you "don't like hops," you might actually like this one.