It has been two months since I have started taking notes about Red ales. I don’t think I have gotten any closer to finding who makes a good Red Ale or what makes a good Red anyhow. I have spoken to multiple people and they all say something different. “Reds are the same as Ambers”, “Reds are far from Ambers”, “Reds are hoppy, Reds are malty”.

I have tried multiple reds,took notes and I find that here in the Northwest Reds are made with more hops. The maltiness is still back there, but our area loves them hops and it shows. Heading South or East the beers get to be maltier.

So where does this leave us? Who makes a good Red Ale? WHAT makes a good Red Ale? I say it is entirely up to you. This style is so diverse that I find there is a Red to suite everyone.

What I know is, I tend to lean more towards hops. That being said I liked Heater Allen Coastal best. Which is listed as an American Amber/Red Lager. The Coastal was just what I discovered I wanted in this style. It had a nice hoppy kick with that malty finish.

So where can you go in Eugene to explore which Red Ale suites you? That is a question I can answer. The Bier Stein on 11th and High features a fine selection in bottles and may have one or two on tap. 16 Tons on 13th and High also has a great selection in bottles, some you may not be able to get at The Stein. Hop Valley and Ninkasi always have their Reds on tap at their establishments. Please do not forget Market of Choice, it is sometimes overlooked for beer selection.

Now go on and find your Red.