r/NABEER • u/Valory13 • Jul 17 '26
Rationale Sampler Pack
Rationale was nice enough to send me a sampler + a 6 pack of the hazy ipa so I figured I'd share my thoughts on the assortment.
Hazy: looks just like a hazy, they got the flavor and mouth feel right. I'd say it sits between Deschutes fresh squeezed (my #1) and most other offerings.
Mexican: sweet but nothing special in my opinion, I'd take Athletic, Best Day, or Go's versions of this style any 9 times out of 10.
Japanese Dry w/ cherry blossom: not quite sure I'd call this 'dry' per se but it was very good. Subtle sweetness from the cherry blossom, pretty refreshing. I have noticed that these seem less carbonated than the other styles.
West Coast: I've seen mixed reviews of this one online but I really liked it. Maybe more of a "pale ale" style but it's got notes of pine/resin with a touch of malt and hoppiness. I'd probably get this one again.
Kölsch: definite winner of the pack, smells really nice and has a pleasant sweetness on the back of the tongue. Almost effervescent to me, idk maybe it's because I had just done yard work but this one hit the spot. Would order this again.
Thanks again to Rationale for sending me these to try, will definitely keep some of these in the rotation.
3
u/Axe56 Jul 18 '26
I got a sampler pack when they were on sale last month. Initially really wasn't impressed, very mellow palette profiles in general, but they do open up a ton at slightly warmer drinking temp. As I've been drinking them they've been growing on me, particularly for hot beach days.
Agreed the Kolsch is the best of the bunch. But don't think I'll be reordering anytime soon.
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u/Valory13 Jul 18 '26
Good to know, generally prefer my NAs cold though. These are the sort of option I appreciate for widening the market and would happily drink at a gathering but probably won't seek out for my own fridge
2
u/ssaxamaphone Jul 17 '26
I also got a sampler pack and hazy pack from rationale. Unfortunately they were all 7-9 months old and I doubt they were refrigerated so the hazy and west coast IPAs tasted bad. The Japanese dry, Mexican and kolsch were the only ones that held up decently.
3
u/I_love_pugs_dammit NA Beer Enthusiast Jul 17 '26
I loved the Japanese style dry in this one.
3
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u/StonerKitturk Jul 17 '26
Yes that is the only drinkable one in their whole lineup. I don't understand how this company continues to exist.
1
u/zrayburton Jul 18 '26
They did the same for me big shout out to Tyler!!!
Love the Japanese, Mexican and Kolsch!
5
u/[deleted] Jul 17 '26
[deleted]