Athletic Brewing ‘Upside Dawn’ Golden
The First Sip
Right away, it’s light-bodied and clean. You get that soft, bready malt followed by a gentle floral hop and just a whisper of citrus. The best part? The crisp, dry finish. It feels grown-up and “sessionable” rather than sweet or soda-like, which is a dealbreaker for me when I’m looking for a sophisticated pour.
The ‘Vibe’
This is your quintessential “Pub Beer” backbone. It’s the reliable, easy-drinking golden ale you’d reach for when you want that authentic bar vibe without the fog. It doesn’t try to steal the show; it just sits perfectly in the pocket of a slow-sipper.
Comparisons
It absolutely mimics a traditional light craft ale. In my Dublin Boilmaker, it played the perfect supporting role to my botanical “whiskey.” The malt wrapped around the herbs and spices, softening the sharp edges and letting the botanicals stay front and center. It feels like a proper drink, not a compromise.
Serving Suggestions
- The Dublin Boilermaker: Pair it with a botanical NA spirit to let those aromatics lift.
- The Shandy-Style: Shake it up with fresh lemonade or grapefruit juice and a dash of bitters.
- The Spicy Michelada: Give it a salted rim, lime, and a splash of tomato for a savory kick.
- The Spritz: Mix with an NA aperitif and a wide orange peel for a bright, bubbly refresher.
