From The Brewery: 

“This decidedly American West Coast pale ale represents the next chapter in our brewing story. Showcasing the full essence of vivid Mandarina Bavaria hops plucked from the storied fields of Germany, it presents bright flavors of peach and orange against a crisp, spicy, biscuity backdrop. We’re glad you’re with us on this journey!” 6.0% ABV American Pale Ale

The Pour: 

Pouring from a 12 oz bottle into my Tioga-Sequoia tulip pint glass. The body is slightly hazy, and copper-ish orange in color. A foamy off-white head is poured, which has very good retention and leaves plenty of lacing on the glass throughout. There isn’t much in the way of any visible carbonation.

The Nose:

Moderate Mandarina Bavaria aromas of orange zest and spicy/floral hop character blend with malt aromas of toasted grain and a hint of caramel/honey sweetness. The hop and malt aromas are properly balanced per the style.

The Mouth:

There is more substance to the body/mouthfeel than I expected – I expected it to be thin, and is just north of medium bodied. It finishes with a decent amount of carbonation and bitterness. The flavors follow the aromas: orange and earthy/floral hops, slightly sweet toasted grain maltiness. The hop flavors linger on the palate after finishing.

Final Thoughts:

I never got around to reviewing the original Stone Pale Ale before it was discontinued, so I don’t have that to compare it to. However, it’s simple to deduce that this went through a bit more of a revamp that Ruination 2.0, as the Mandarina Barvaria hops used in Pale Ale 2.0 are relatively new, being introduced in 2012.  Pale Ale 2.0 is a decent offering, a little more hop forward than the gold standard Sierra Nevada Pale Ale, but does retain its overall balance. It isn’t an exciting beer by any means, but a perfectly good mixed 12-pack filler. 7/10

Stone Brewing Co. – Escondido, California