I’ve been hearing talk about keeping it local these days, with some being more ardent in their approach than others. Me? I mostly employ the scattershot method of trying new things, trying to keep up with the local, national, and international scenes all at once. But I do like to plug a good local when I spot one, and once again, Williamsburg AleWerks keeps it comin’ with their All-American Cream Ale.

A rather ginger pour yields three fingers of densely-packed, brilliant white head and the beer itself is a pale golden hue. That delicious and enticing grainy aroma of pale malt takes center stage in the nose, and there seems to be a slight spicy character from the hop profile; very similar to a clean lager, as cream ales are wont to do.

This one is all about subtlety and balance, and it’s quite clear that this resembles a lager on most accounts. Up front, you barely notice the beer making an entrance, bolstered by a creamy and well-carbonated body. The middle brings about more grain-like flavors, with an added spicy note that the hops seem to provide and take through the finish. All this abates gradually, finishing semi-smooth and leaving some spiciness behind in the aftertaste.

All in all, I’m very content with this beer. The heat of summer is upon us, and this is quite a thirst-quencher, albeit better than your average lawnmower beer. Think Budweiser with body, delivering a marginally bolder flavor and just enough going on to please, not overwhelm, most any palate, and all the while staying crisp and delightful. With this offering, Williamsburg AleWerks keeps it simple and succeeds.