Loose Leaf by O'Dell Brewery

The Loose Leaf is an American Session Ale, which means that it follows in the tradition of being low in alcohol content so one could enjoy it during a break session and go back to the factory floor without getting their appendages coiled in a flywheel. Loose Leaf has an ABV of 4.5% which, apparently, sets it outside the standard range of a session ale (3-4%). Misappropriation of a name is a no-no, and in this age of Instagram and hipsters, screams "look at how unique my beer is!" The misappropriation of the name and its light-color meant this two-dollar a bottle beer had an uphill battle to win me over.

Having tried all 12 oz. Ina pint glass, it is clear why they named it Loose Leaf. There's a subtle combination of smells that would best be described as "hardwood forest on a drizzly day." There's a noticeable bit of hops and it pairs neatly with a slight hint of lemongrass. All around, I would describe this beer as a smelling like outside and that's a very, very good thing. 

Ultimately, this beer would be best suited to a summer day of yard games or relaxing on the beach. The smooth carbonation and light taste plant this beer solidly among other summer seasonal beers.

VERDICT: This beer fought a tough uphill battle and barely earned one-thumb up.
SUMMARY: Good for upscale summer binge drinking.
PAIRINGS: I would love to try this with chicken or a shore lunch of walleye.