The Central Coast brewery, Firestone Walker, which has been making a version of the beer available in its pub for several years, brews the blonde ale.
“We had been making this beer for a while and you can find it in a few bars, usually given a unique name by one of the locals… but then people learned that it was ours and kept asking for us to release it,” said David Walker, co-owner of the brewery. “So we decided to listen to them, the first step was to christen the beer ‘the 805’, and to make it available widely in bars with an 805 area code. Next we’ll release bottles in the spring on the Central Coast simply trying to keep it local.”
Those that have tried 805 before, recognize it by its golden color, light and crisp carbonation and slightly sweet aroma. If you’re new to the beer you’ll find that the honey flavor is noticeable on the palate but not overpowering, making this a clean, sessionable Ale that is the perfect fit after surfing, hiking or just a hot day on the Central Coast.
The beer was a recipient of a bronze medal at the European Beer Star Awards in 2010, which has lent it a reputation in beer circles as well as being a favorite with Central Coast locals.