Larry, Curly, and Moesaic Pale
1 log on Brewskipotatoes
Tasting Notes
Mosaic hops drive this one, so expect a bouquet of tropical fruit — mango, papaya, a little blueberry — with some mild piney resin underneath. The flavor follows that lead: fruit-forward with a moderate bitterness that doesn't overstay its welcome. Body is light to medium, keeping things approachable without feeling thin. The finish is clean with a gentle hop bite that lingers just long enough to remind you what you're drinking.
About the Brewery
Flying Lion Brewing is based in Seattle, Washington, operating out of the Columbia City neighborhood. They have a reputation as a neighborhood-rooted taproom with a range that spans approachable everyday drinkers to more adventurous hop-forward offerings. I don't have deep specifics on their founding date or full lineup history, but they're a recognized part of Seattle's active craft beer scene.
Food Pairings
A burger with sharp cheddar works well here because the hop bitterness cuts through the fat without fighting the beef. Fish tacos are a natural match since the tropical hop character echoes lime and mango salsa without overwhelming delicate white fish. Roasted chicken with herb seasoning pairs cleanly because the beer's moderate bitterness complements savory herbal notes. Lightly spiced Thai noodles get along with the fruity Mosaic character, which softens heat rather than amplifying it.
Style Guide
American Pale Ale sits between a session beer and an IPA in terms of hop intensity — it leads with hop aroma and flavor, typically in the floral, citrus, or tropical range depending on the hop selection, but keeps bitterness measured and the malt relatively neutral. ABV generally runs from around 4.5% to 6%, making it a full-flavored but not punishing style. It diverged from its British pale ale ancestor by leaning into American hop varieties, which tend toward fruitier, more resinous profiles than the earthy English hops that preceded them. Compared to an IPA, the hop load is lighter and the malt plays a more visible supporting role.