A couple of points: a) it's not all that pale; b) the cutthroat aspect refers to the fish, not junior-mining-company machinations; and c) it's got to be one of the best brews of the year. Tree Brewing's Cutthroat Pale Ale (six 341-millilitre bottles for $10.60) is lovely glistening amber in the glass, its fruity and hoppy aromas leaping right out. Full at the front of the tongue and with a hint of side-palate bitterness and a fresh bright bite, it's simply a superb brew. This one's high on my list of the best of B.C.-or anywhere else. Might make a nicer gift than one of those nondescript wines from the Critter Corner.