I Want to be Sedated

Summer is a time of "Sedation" at Institution Ale Company in Camarillo. As a hoppy red session ale, it's low in alcohol, meaning "that you can enjoy multiple pints in a single drinking session and not be falling over drunk," says cofounder Shaun Smith. (Typically, session beers are between 3.5 and 5% alcohol by volume.) The ruby-red beer is named Sedation due to its lower alcohol content, says Smith, and the microbrewery's proximity to the former Camarillo State Mental Hospital.

"Sedation has a mild malt profile with hints of toasted bread and caramel, but finishes crisp and dry," says Smith. "The refreshing base beer is complemented by a trio of fruitforward hops, bringing forth citrus, melon and floral flavors and aromas. Though the beer isn't light on hops, its bitterness is held back by using hops late in the brewing process and post-fermentation (dry hopping)."

A versatile, easy-drinking beer that's a "go-to option for craft beer novices" with a complexity that "beer geeks" can get behind, Sedation pairs well with lighter dishes. But it has enough oomph to stand up to heavier dishes, like burgers, too. Fish tacos and grilled chicken salads are two good pairing choices, Smith says.

For fun, we asked who Sedation would be if it were a famous person: Justin Timberlake – the multi-talented singer and actor – came the answer. "Because it's tough to hate the guy, just like it's tough to hate Sedation. It's obviously not everybody's favorite beer in our lineup, but I don't think I've ever cleared off someone's table with Sedation still left in the glass."

For more info, visit InstitutionAles.com.