Calico
The first beer brewed on the original 15-barrel brewhouse at Home Brew Mart, introduced in 1996 as Calico Amber Ale. A ruby-red, copper ale with four types of malt and American hops: toasted caramel, citrus and spice, with a nod to traditional ESBs. At 5.5%, seasonal and on draft; European Beer Star gold in 2012 and 2015.
AWARDS
Tasting Notes
AI-generated sensory profile for Calico
Serve at 8–11°C for the best flavour balance and aroma expression.
The classic — versatile, comfortable to hold and keeps the beer cool. No frills, no distractions: just the beer.
More from Ballast Point Brewing
About Amber Ale
Style guide · what to expect · how to find alternatives
What is a Amber Ale?
Amber Ales have 4.5–6.2% ABV and IBU 25–40. Caramel malt sweetness balanced by moderate hop bitterness, a reddish-amber colour and smooth finish.
Finding a similar Amber Ale
hopIQ matches by flavor profile — not just style label. A beer with the same toasty, caramel, citrusy character as Calico will score highly even if brewed in a different country or under a different sub-style name.