Tasting: Redhook ESB

Another of the beers I picked up in Oregon (although it is brewed in Washington).  I don't yet have a clear picture of what Redhook is shooting for, so I will try to pick up anything I can until I figure it out.

Tasting: Chilled to ~35 degrees (f) from a pint glass, after drinking this beer, I upped the temp on my beer fridge, it should really be tasted at 45 or higher.  The malt aroma doesn't come through at the lower temperatures.

Appearance: 2.5/3 Bright orange in color, very slight haze, .
Head: 2.5/3 Light foamy head that fades to thin film.
Aroma: 3/3 Very light malt aroma with hints of nut.
Flavor: 2.5/3 Prominent cascade hops, subdued malt flavor.  It tastes good, but not like I expected an ESB to taste.
Mouth feel: 3/3 Medium bodied, well carbonated, smooth on the palette.
Overall: 2.5/3 A great hoppy cascade ale, but I think not typical of an ESB.  Consider it a light IPA or a heavy Pale Ale.
Buzz: 2/3 ~6% ABV

A good beer, and highly recommended if you like American hops.  Purists may want to pass though.