Rating: 5/5
Somnambulism by Shady Oak Barrel House is a 7% ABV Dark Sour aged in rye whisky and pinot noir barrels.
Funky sweet, citrus farmhouse and complex dark fruits
Tag Archives: sour ale
2017 Frucht: Passion Fruit by Bruery Terreux
Rating: 4.75/5
2017 Frucht: Passion Fruit by Bruery Terreux is a 4.5% ABV Berliner Weisse brewed with passion fruit.
Original Review:
https://animebeers.com/2016/04/09/frucht-passion-fruit-by-the-bruery-terreux/
Mélange No. 9 by The Bruery Terreux
Rating: 5.25/6
Mélange No. 9 by The Bruery Terreux is a 7.8% ABV Wild Ale Hybrid of 83% Sour Ale Aged in Oak Barrels, 17% Ale aged in bourbon barrels with ginger and coconut added.
Label:
TROPICAL – OAKY – ISLAND
This sour ale was the winner of our Hoarders Society blending competition. A combination of our sour blonde, Sour in the Rye and White Oak Sap along with ginger and coconut.
Description:
Mélange #9 was created by your peers at a special blending competition held in November 2013 for our Hoarders Society members at the time. Each team was given access to a slew of our barrel aged beers and were allowed to bring in pretty much any ingredient of their own to add to the mix. The winning blend is a sour ale, using both our sour blonde ale and Sour in the Rye, with a hint of sweetness from White Oak Sap. Coconut and fresh ginger was added to the blend just a few days before packaging, generating a super fresh, tropical spice.
==Introduction==
Mélange #9 was finally released to the Reserve society at the Bruery. One the Melange series that I have not tried before. Many of the Melange series has always been about Cuvees of dark strong beers and very few about sours. Like I still have to try Melange #1. Yet, since I didn’t know when they would release Mélange #9 again, I figure I bring it to the site before the getting was good. This one is actually a sour. With the addition of the base being White Oak and Sour in the Rye makes for a beer that could be quite intriguing. Let’s have a look, cheers!
Aromas:
Stone fruit apricots, peaches, sour apples, lavender hibiscus, rose hips, ginger bread, oranges, lime, wine grapes, dragon fruit, rye bread, pineapple, lemon peel, oak, Chardonnay, bourbon hints, vanilla, and coconut notes.
Flavors:
Ginger bread, ginger cookies, ginger ale, funky grapes, toasted coconut, oranges, tangerines, passion fruit, dragon fruit, rye bread, cucumber, tart pineapple, lemon peel, oak, chardonnay, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, Mexican Cocada coconut candy, sweetened condensed milk hints, white wine, lactic funk wine grapes, farmhouse notes, hibiscus, lavender, rose hips, honey, stone fruit apricots, peaches and sour apples.
Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with floral notes, coconut, lemon peel, ginger bread, vanilla, oak, honey, oranges, hibiscus, and wine grapes. No Alcohol in the taste, clear golden body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A slight smidge above perfect and this is definitely due to the fact that it is not a pure sour. The ginger, coconut and bourbon definitely cut the sour aspects by a lot and bring about a nice balance and complexity that makes this one more enjoyable with every sip. I think many that do not like sours will find this one appealing. Highly recommended.
Anime Corner:
Misty/Kasumi from Pokemon was brought to this beer to pair with the colors of the label and represent some of the tropics of the beer. While her thing is water and water type pokemon, I think she fit just right. Also, the fact that this is the first time I use her in a Bruery beer as well.
Sources:
https://images6.alphacoders.com/821/821146.png
http://www.fanpark.cc/data/0001/04/14892134587295.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Pokémon.full.1154124.jpg
2017 Befuddlement by The Bruery Terreux
Rating: 6/6
2017 Befuddlement by The Bruery Terreux is a 9.9% American Wild Rye Ale with Boysenberries aged in oak and bourbon barrels.
Label:
None.
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Befuddlement is a Hoarders Society exclusive blend of our Sour In The Rye and our bourbon barrel aged old-ale, Sucré, with the addition of an incredible number of boysenberries. This deep purple beer is textured with sweet notes of caramelized malts, spicy rye, oak, juicy berries and a pleasantly sour funk. It’s a rather befuddling meld of flavors with an outcome that we couldn’t enjoy more.
==Introduction==
Released for Reserve and Hoarders societies only, this one was I never had chance to try. Based on the blending process it looks like they blended BBA Sucré with this one which is an awesome anniversary brew from a couple of years ago. It was the time when they started barrel aging in different spirits and have not stopped since. Special Barrel variants are awesome but the mix of that with other awesome beers creates something even more unique. Essentially, their mixed sour brews and Melangé series has been nothing but amazing. Each blend is unique while also some blends being more amazing than other blends. So let’s have a look at this one as it is a special sour blend with their anniversary. Cheers!
Aromas:
Cadbury Cream egg hints, marshmallows, graham crackers, brown sugar, banana hints, piloncillo sugar cone, dark cherry yogurt, dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherries, blackberries, boysenberries, strawberries, wine grapes, raspberry preserves on toasted rye bread, leather, boysenberry cobbler, boysenberry muffins, port wine, dulce de leche caramel, waffle cone, candy sugar, chocolate truffle notes and crème brulee hints.
Flavors:
Dark fruit raisins, currants, dark cherries, blackberries, boysenberries, strawberries, wine grapes, vanilla, fruit cake, oak, Bourbon, chocolate, toffee, raspberry preserves on toasted rye bread, leather, boysenberry cobbler, boysenberry muffins, port wine, dulce de leche caramel, Cadbury Cream egg hints, marshmallows, graham crackers, brown sugar, banana hints, piloncillo sugar cone, dark cherry yogurt, waffle cone, candy sugar, chocolate truffle notes, crème brulee hints, raisin bread pudding, hibiscus, floral notes, toasted coconut hints and boysenberry cheese cake.
Aftertaste:
Finishes semi dry with lots of boysenberry flavor, dark fruits, tart boysenberry skins, boysenberry yogurt, oak, bourbon, vanilla, caramel, chocolate hints and floral notes. No alcohol in the taste. Crimson and Rose colored full body, crisp, effervescent, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel along with a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
This exceptionally awesome brew can be best described as a tart boysenberry cobbler. There was a ton of berries and BBA Sucré to guarantee the flavors came out similar especially close to a tart boysenberry cordial. So I feel like I have been missing out especially after having this one. In fact, many special blended sours have been coming out really exceptional and hope they bring out more like this one. It was definitely worth the freebie from the Reserve allocation. I highly recommend this sour.
Anime Corner:
Widow Maker from Overwatch was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the colors of the label, beer color and ingredients of the beer which all seem to match with the deep purple, reds and blues of her. This and the fact that this is the first time I use her in a pairing for the Bruery, the timing seemed perfect really. In a way, since she is mixed with Sucré, she looks a lot like Mari Ilustrious which I used in that beer but without the glasses and blue skin.
Sources:
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/I4whOtX72NxfDypPSY0bZelyW5XrEPw527qD7LPEZAagzs4bPu0b8ynnllKv1Rh.jpeg?w=1600&v=2-IjikrDIjBKJJXtrL4Lt6CxaOLlMtyhGtSlX_3qbJQ%3D
http://file2.instiz.net/data/file2/2016/07/29/f/9/8/f98ef897a8b4a370dcdaa5fd0d7c08b5.jpg
https://cdn3.patreon.com/1/patreon.posts/6933583458898303643.jpg?w=1600&v=3AQIGa3dXAxVvk3ENQ9w1fAj0-PlXL548-kdzROxSCA%3D
http://pic.chinaz.com/2016/0614/1465870307917.png
Roselle (LÄCTOBÄC: TWO) by Fair State CO-OP
Rating: 4.5/5
Roselle (LÄCTOBÄC: TWO) by Fair State CO-OP is a 5.7% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with Hibiscus.
Label:
Sour beer brewed with Hibiscus, tart & floral.
==Introduction==
I had received a can of this sour when I obtained it as an extra when I ordered the Pipeworks Brewing Lil Citra. This was unexpected but any new beer that can be added to the website is more than welcome. This one being a sour made with hibiscus gives it a very nice cherry looking color to it. Without much info on this beer, let’s see what this one is about. Cheers!
Aromas:
Tart grapes, flowers like roses, lavender, hibiscus, chamomile, biscuit bread, vanilla, cane sugar, sakura cake, wheat, coriander hints, lemon peel and peppercorns.
Flavors:
Hibiscus, Rose petals, lavender, Sakura Cherry blossoms, mild grape wine notes, cane sugar, vanilla, mango, passion fruit dragon fruit, kiwi, pink peppercorn notes, cherries, strawberry jam, grapefruit hints, sakura cake, hibiscus petals, biscuit bread, raspberry yogurt notes, wheat, coriander hints, lemon peel and lemon candies.
Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with hints of hibiscus, cane sugar, raspberry hints and lavender. No alcohol in the taste, rosy pink hazy body, creamy, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouth feel and very easy to drink.
Overall:
Definitely a very good beer. Very floral than fruity sour and has a great color. There are few beers that use hibiscus and while I have enjoyed others that I loved more, this one is definitely awesome especially since it is canned. This one is worth a try.
Anime Corner:
Juri Han from the Street Fighter series was used in this pairing as I wanted to pair with the different colors of the label but also since her colors pair with the flavors and the ingredients used to make the beer and the beer color as well.
2016 Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla by The Bruery Terreux
Rating: 5.5/6
2016 Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla by The Bruery Terreux is a 7.% ABV American Wild Stout aged in Oak Barrels with Cherries and Vanilla Beans.
New Label:
Roasty – Midnight – Delight
Old Label:
SAUERSTAUT
With a roasty aroma and a tart finish, this sour black ale is a contortion of style and flavor, creating an unexpected delight.
Tart of Darkness with Cherries & Vanilla is best enjoyed fresh for bold spice and fruit character, but my pleasantly if cellared properly.
___
Released to the Preservation and Reserve Societies once again and possibly the a public release, this is the second time I try this beer. I was not going to do a review of this one since I had already done one in the past but as soon as I tried it and the new label came about, I had to give it a shot. This beer is a variant to the publicly sold Tart of Darkness. I will be honest, while the tart of darkness is a very good sour, it does not compare to my favorite sour stout Madrugada Obscura by Jolly Pumpkin. The cherries and vanilla from the last time I reviewed this beer made a huge difference. Draw your puckeringly sour sword and get ready to take action!
Aromas:
Dark cherry yogurt, Vanilla ice cream, caramel,Lavender, cotton candy, strawberry cheesecake, lemon peel, citrus, dark chocolate hints, blueberry skins, earthy notes, Cherry vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, molasses, anise, licorice, lemon peel, sour funky notes, citrus, port wine hints, blue berry muffin and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Toasted coconut, coffee, mocha, rich dark fruit cherries, raisins, prunes, concord grapes, currants, blueberries, vanilla cream, caramel, tart wine grapes, dark chocolate, milk chocolate, bakers chocolate, sour cherry cordials, floral lavender, dark cherry yogurt, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, blueberry muffin, lemon peel, Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, grape skins, port wine hints, oak, earthy notes and musty sour funky notes.
Aftertaste:
Tart wine grapes, oak, dark cherry yogurt hints, vanilla, coconut hints, and earthy notes finishing all fast and dry. No alcohol in the taste, murky amber brown full body with no head retention, soft, smooth and slightly creamy mouthfeel and a sipping drinkability.
Overall:
Awesome sauce this year. I don’t know if I liked this one more or the last time I tried this one more. There is so much more chocolate coconut in this one along with vanilla and cherry sour stout goodness that I think it actually is beating the Madrugada Obscura. The Bruery definitely out did themselves this time and I would highly recommend this one if you love sours!
Anime Corner:
Saber Alter/Dark Saber from Fate/Stay Night/Hollow Ataraxia was used in this pairing since I used Jean from Claymore. Basically both represent the “Dark Knight” In the Tart of Darkness. The return of this brew show cases Saber as she tries to battle her inner darkness but realizes that without embracing both the light and evil, she is nothing. You can also say Saber is Vanilla and Dark Saber is the Cherries. The aspect of the warrior of darkness and the fact that I have used Saber in many Dark chocolate and cherry flavored beers just pushes my conviction that much further. The Dark Arts have to do with blasphemy against the church but the strange part, as holy as some organizations are, some hold deep dark secrets that the public never knows about. Tart of Darkness with Cherries and Vanilla brings that aspect of sour evil but yet sweet and forgiving aspects that are pretty damn Holy if you ask me. Think of it as the sweetness delivering the darkness of the beer from evil Either way, great beer and great pairing I think.
Sources:
http://tsundora.com/image/2014/10/fate_stay_night_673.jpg
http://pm1.narvii.com/5832/37ca0cfb16b4e985b40f227f7ae4a7b2aafa50da_hq.jpg
Tropical Platypus by Almanac Brewing
Rating: 5.5/6
Tropical Platypus by Almanac Brewing is 6% ABV American Wild Ale Dry-Hopped Sour Ale Aged in Wine Barrels with Kiwi, Mango, Lime and Passion Fruit.
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
This special tropical ale is brewed in celebration of City Beer Store’s 10th Anniversary. Inspired by their adorable Platypus mascot, this equatorial sour blonde ale is aged in used wine barrels and oak foeders with an array of tropical fruits. We selected barrels with fruit-forward characters, and amplified those notes with the addition of kiwi, mango, lime and passionfruit. We tied the whole blend together with the addition of aromatic Galaxy hops from New Zealand. The finished beer is a tropical explosion, worthy of our duck-billed inspiration. Pair with celebratory anniversaries, pupu platters and white sand beaches.
When Almanac was in its infancy, City Beer Store was already a craft beer institution in San Francisco. They constantly fought for the craft beer industry and provided a home for new breweries looking to make a mark. In fact, they were the first to sell Almanac’s beer. This beer honors 10 years of providing a home for craft beer.
==Introduction==
Obtained this one from Craftshack.com along with other great beers. This one intrigued me because I made a tropical IPA with similar ingredients and trying this may give me an incite as to what to expect. The brew is a small bottle as with many of Almanacs delicious beers but with that being said, I will be taking my time analyze this one as I do with others but more importantly, try to take some flavors that may relate to my homebrew that will be ready in sometime in July 2016. The mix of fruits sounds so damn delicious but as a sour, I will have to see if it can compare to other sours I have had in the past. Let’s take a look. Cheers!
Aromas:
Tropical fruit kiwi, pineapple, mango, guava, dragon fruit, margarita notes, lime peel, lemons, limes, white wine grapes, passion fruit, stone fruit peaches, apricots, banana hints, clove hints, coriander hints, vanilla, oak, floral hop notes, lavender, cane sugar, chardonnay, peppercorn and wine grapes.
Flavors:
Rich Stone fruit peaches, apricots, sour apples, tropical fruit kiwi, pineapple, mango, passion fruit, dragon fruit, margarita notes, lime peel, lemons, limes, white wine grapes, concorde grapes, chardonay, peppercorns, waffle cone, cranberries, dark cherries, citrus, grapefruit, grassy, mild pine, floral and earthy hops, tangerine gummies, vanilla, oak, caramel, banana hints, clove hints, coriander hints, lavender, hibiscus hints, guavas.
Aftertaste:
Finishes dry with minor hints of tropics, limes, lemons, stone fruit, wine grapes, grapefruit, citrus and dank hops and sour funky notes. No alcohol in the taste. Hazy Pale Straw body, Crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouth feel with an easy drinkability.
Overall:
A very awesome and very exceptional sour showcasing so much tropical goodness. This is one of the best sours up there with the great ones I really love. The beer does shows a lot of flavors which I would definitely wanna see in my beer as it is supposed to be a tropical fruit IPA. However, this being a sour and oak aged is super well balanced and made. The balance of tart and sweet comes together very nicely. I highly recommend it if you love sours and especially dry hopped tropical sours.
Anime Corner:
Marino from Megaman X Command Mission was chosen in this pairing as I could not find a platypus but her colors represent all the tropical flavors of the beer. Even though she is not a platypus, her hair is long like the platypus tail and the holder that holds her sword is almost like a platypus bill. It is a stretch but I think the pairing works well.
Sources:
http://static.giantbomb.com/uploads/original/12/127136/1753558-marino_perspective_cged_by_liline.png
http://img00.deviantart.net/09ea/i/2014/289/8/8/marino_by_wing_maiden-d830zf1.jpg
http://i207.photobucket.com/albums/bb209/redninja4/Megaman/1234659355039.jpg
Frucht: Passion Fruit by The Bruery Terreux
Rating: 4.65/5
Frucht: Passion Fruit by The Bruery Terreux is a 4.3% ABV Berliner Weisse with Passion Fruit
Label:
Fruity – Funky – Racy
Description:
We’re totally Frucht around here. In fact, we may just be filled to the brim, with excitement, that is. Our threshold is 250 BBLs, to be more precise. That’s the total capacity of each new oak foeder at Bruery Terreux. One is dedicated exclusively to Frucht, our new series of fruited Berliner Weisse-style beers. Known for a tart flavor profile and traditionally low ABV, our new German-style wheat beer gains even more funky notes and natural earthy-woodiness from its fermentation in the large oak foeder vessel.
Each installment in the series will feature a new fruit, or Frucht, if we’re Sprechen sie Deutsch. This first installment has passion fruit added, which escalates the tartness, tropicality and palate-cleansing prowess of the base beer. Prost!
==Introduction==
Released to all 3 Bruery Societies (Preservation, Reserve and Hoarders) for Quarter 1 2016, this brew is the first from the Frucht series of beers where they will try to create a variety of sour brews using various brews. An awesome way to start as the series using an exotic fruit such as passion fruit. I definitely love passion fruits and also love Dragon fruits so if you make a Dragon fruit one, please do Bruery. So this one I believe they take the base Berliner (Hottenroth) and make it with passion fruits. I have tried other version of Hottenroth which are decent tangy sours. Let’s see how this one comes up. Cheers!
Aromas:
Fig plant, Floral notes, lavender, passion fruit, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, funky sour notes, citrus blossom honey, dragon fruit hints, papaya, guava tart, pineapple, coriander spice, lemon peel, strawberry hints and wheat bread.
Flavors:
Rich Tart Passion fruit pulp, Pineapple, floral notes, grapefruit peel, lemon peel, citrus peel, mango peels, wine grapes, farmhouse hay, banana hints, coriander spice, peppercorn hints, strawberry notes, dragon fruit, wheat bread, sourdough bready hints, citrus blossom honey, tomato notes, papaya, stone fruit apricots, sour apple notes, oak, hibiscus, lavender and tart guava hints.
Aftertaste:
Finish super dry with notes of flowers, super tart passion fruit, oak and lemon peel. No alcohol in the taste, clear golden light body, crisp, refreshing and effervescent mouthfeel with a moderate to sipping drinkability.
Overall:
A very good and super tart fruit sour brew. The passion fruit is dominant and tarty while still giving that refreshing Berliner experience. You can definitely tell it is more of the actual passion fruit and not a natural flavor of passion fruit. This is definitely something that is a great start for the series and hope they use more exotic fruits. This beer is definitely recommended to those that enjoy super tarty sour beers as it is very tart.
Anime Corner:
Roll from the Megaman Series was used in this series since I have been meaning to pair her with a Bruery beer for a long time. Her colors complement the colors of the label and the passion fruit itself. While such a light beer (ABV) it may complement Roll’s miniature appearance but remember, just the way this is super tart, Roll hides some very destructive power. Don’t make her mad (sip with caution) otherwise she will sour your soul!
Sources:
http://i.imgur.com/aK1owbg.jpg
http://blog-imgs-70.fc2.com/k/u/s/kusakunai931/1405151389518.jpg
http://i.imgur.com/QmF44WE.jpg
Ukelele by The Buery Terreux
Rating: 6/6
Ukelele by The Buery Terreux is a 13.5% ABV Tropical Sour Ale brewed with passion fruit, Thai Chilis, and Ginger spice aged in bourbon barrels
COMMERCIAL DESCRIPTION
Here’s a beer that will pluck on your heartstrings. Just close your eyes and say aloha to Kauai, where the idea for Ukulele began in the form of a Passion Chili Whiskey Fizz, made with bourbon, passion fruit, Thai chili and ginger ale. Ukulele’s tone and volume intensifies with each sip, dancing on the tongue with massive, tart tropical fruit flavors and ginger spice, crescendoing with the slow-timed release of heat from ghost chili peppers and warmth from bourbon barrel-aging. Ukulele is truly a gift or reward to share with friends.
==Introduction==
Obtained this brew as part of the Reserve Society membership. This brew was released to Reserve and Hoarders members of the Bruery. This brew is the Bruery’s take on a more tropical paradise kind of beer. One aged in bourbon barrels and as many of these beers go then to be pretty awesome. I have no idea how the chili and the tropical fruit will work with this beer but I have a feeling it maybe something like the Mexican chili candies. Let’s see if that is the case. Cheers!
Aromas:
Tamarind, bourbon, honey, piloncillo sugar, oak, bourbon, tropical fruits like pineapple, lychee fruit, honey dew melon, papayas, mangos, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, plums, blackberries, flan, Chili candy, stone fruit peaches, apricots, farmhouse hay, ginger spice and gummy bears.
Flavors:
Tropical fruit papayas, mangos, dragon fruit, passion fruit, kiwi, rich pineapple, honey dew melon, lychee fruit, caramel, vanilla, bourbon, oak, jalapeño pepper, ancho, marshmallows, coconut, ginger spice, fruit cake, tamarind, tejuino, tajin chili, dark fruit cherries, raspberries, plums, blackberries, Tejuino, oranges, tangerines, stone fruit peaches, apricots, farmhouse hay, Mexican mango or water melon chili candy, flan, cinnamon, ginger bread, rye bread, toffee, gummy bears, grilled bananas, brown sugar, honey, and pilloncillo sugar cone hints.
Aftertaste:
Mild heat lingers (for the chili experienced), lots of tropical goodness, Mexican Mango candy, dark fruits, stone fruits, oak bourbon, and coconut linger. No alcohol in the taste, golden amber full body, sweet, crisp, smooth and refreshing mouthfeel, oh yeah and did I mention how ridiculously easy it is to drink this? It is dangerous!!
Overall:
One of the more exceptional sours I have ever had. It reminded me of Mexican Mango candy. This tropical sour gave me goosebumps because the flavors were tangy tropical but also spicy. There was so much going on and really kept me active and drinking. I can tell this one is spicy but for those that may not have a chili tolerance, get ready. Either way, the sweetness of his beer really plays well with the spicy aspect and the focus of tropical and spicy with the complex bourbon action is what you really get while the alcoholic strength is still small but present overall. I highly recommend this one.
Anime Corner:
Starfire/Koriand’r from Teen Titans was the perfect pairing for this beer. She is so damn sweet and very innocent always open minded and caring but yet if you make her mad she has the strength and power to demolish cities! Yes, this is exactly how this beer feels. The flavor of sweetness and the heat since Starfire is ridiculous and smokingly hot explains the dominant aspects of the beer while the ABV or her demolishing power and strength take the way side mainly because you just can’t taste the alcohol. I really enjoyed this one wayyy too much. Now I have to some how get more bottles but I missed out as I only got one. If you want to try this one, head to the Bruery before it is gone this month (November 2015) or find a way to trade for it. I highly recommend it!
Sources:
http://orig08.deviantart.net/831a/f/2014/055/d/a/starfire__render__by_dafneyaneth-d77x87d.png
https://brewerianimelogs.files.wordpress.com/2015/12/d6dfb-shunyayamashitastarfirekotobukiya.jpg
http://i3.kym-cdn.com/photos/images/facebook/000/757/612/9a5.png
Collaboration Series: Confession collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard
Rating: 4.75/5
Collaboration Series: Confession collaboration by The Bruery Terreux and Fess Parker Winery & Vineyard is a 9.7% ABV American Wild Ale with Riesling Grapes
Label:
Floral – Citrusy – Mineralic
==Introduction==
Obtained from the Bruery Reserve membership, this beer was sold to the Hoarders society but was passed down over to the Reserve society. An ale that crosses into the wine territory. The last time I had a beer with Fess Parker as a collaboration, it was the Mardi Rouge/Red Tuesday/Winefication I. This was sometime last year and as I remember, the cross into the wine territory is pretty good when done right. Wineification was awesome for sure. This one, being a sour, I am sure will be delicious. Especially if you love wines or sours.
Aromas:
earthy notes, earthy funk, wine grapes, grape skins, oak, vanilla, rye bread, raspberry vinaigratte, leather, berry cheese cake hints, salt, lemon candy, tejuino, oranges, roses, lavender, hibiscus and chardonnay.
Flavors:
Riesling grapes, concorde grapes, Wine grapes, grape skins, earthy notes, earthy funk, salt, lemon candy, tejuino, oranges, tangerine, chardonnay, lemon yogurt, vinous, white wine, dessert wine hints, Stone fruit peach, apricots, pears, apples, oak, vanilla, rye bread, raspberry vinaigratte, leather, berry cheese cake hints, floral notes of roses, lavender, hibiscus and chamomile, berry seeds and dark fruit figs.
Aftertaste:
Dry leaving hints of wine grapes, earthy notes, lemon, and funky bitterness. No alcohol in the taste, Golden light body, crisp, clean, refreshing and moderate mouthfeel and a easy to moderate drinkability.
Overall:
Very good sour show casing a variety of tart fruits and funkiness. Typically, those fruity yet vinous and tart that you would find in some wines and sours. If you like sours or wine, this is a very delicious beer for sure. Sometimes, I can draw the line on some sours or some wines and well, there are many things I take from them. While some are awesome, especially the sweet sours, I can respect this one since it seems to have some kind of following. So if you get a chance and love sours, this one is worth a try atleast once.
Anime Corner:
Terra Branford from Final Fantasy VI was used in this pairing to pair with the name of the beer and the colors. Confession almost seemed like something very serious, like confessing to a crime or confessing to your conscience. In this pairing we see Terra looking with blood on her clothing as if to try to say something, like she committed a murder. In the other picture with the flash, it looks as if she is confessing to her conscience. That is what the little spark is role playing as.
Sources:
http://static.zerochan.net/Tina.Branford.full.184048.jpg
http://static.zerochan.net/Tina.Branford.full.438465.jpg
Friek by Odell brewing
Rating: 4.85/5
Friek by Odell brewing is a 6.9% ABV American Wild Ale brewed with cherries and raspberries aged in oak barrels.
Label:
FRIEK is an evolution, an imaginative amalgamation invented by our brewers. Multiple KRIEK Lambic style ales are fermented with WILD yeast and TART cherries and then moved into OAK BARRELS to age and sour taking on the CHERRY flavors. As the beer matures, FRAMBOISES (raspberries) from Schroyer Family Farms in Fort Collins are handpicked and readied for the beer. The fresh RASPBERRIES are added immediately prior to the final blending. The sweet and tart flavors MINGLE on the tongue with a sparkling dry finish.
==Introduction==
A special thanks to my friend Aaron Mendiola of www.beermetaldude.com for sending me this one. We do not see much of Odell brewing here on the west coast so to see this one for a review here on the site is an awesome opportunity. Odell makes some really delicious beers such as the Lugene, Fifty niner or tree shaker. I can definitely feel confident that this one was going to be great. Especially with raspberries and cherries. Yes Please!
Aromas:
Dark cherries, raspberries, vanilla, oak, wine grapes, dark fruit raisins, plums, prunes, currants, caramel, brown sugar, musty notes, rose petals, lavender, Jamaica hibiscus flower drink, sweetened condensed milk notes, molasses, chocolate notes, apricots, apples and cinnamon hints.
Flavors:
Tart Dark cherries, tart raspberries, vanilla, oak, wine grapes, dark fruit plums, prunes, currants, jamaica/hibiscus flower drink, concord grapes, cranberries, funky notes, red wine grapes, sangria, apples, apricots, brown sugar, caramel, musty notes, rose petals, lavender, molasses, chocolate hints, chardonnay, champagne and sweetened condensed milk hints.
Aftertaste:
Finishes sour with tart fruits of cherry, raspberries, dark fruit, wine grapes, oak, earthy notes, vanilla and caramel. No alcohol in the taste, sipping drinkability, clear crimson red body, silky and moderate mouthfeel.
Overall:
This one turned out to be a good tart and sour yet very sweet beer. Reminds me of tart of darkness with its sweet and sour notes fighting each other for balance but ultimately being a sweet tart. I would definitely like a sweeter than tart and sour but this one really does deliver not only the sweeter part but also complexity. The beer itself is recommendable if you are able to get Odell in your area and especially if you like tart and sour beers.
Anime Corner:
Ibara sisters and their mother Teresa Rose were used in this pairing to go with the colors or the label, the cherries, the raspberries and the sour tart aspect of the beer. In the game, Ibara, the sisters are actually bosses where their mother Teresa is the last boss. They may looks really sweet but they are sour evil. Sometimes, it’s not bad to dabble in the sour and evil side of beers as well.
Sources:
http://www.pelaajalehti.com/wordpress/wp-content/2009/04/ibaraiso.jpg
2014 Roble Blanco by The Bruery
Rating: 6/5
2014 Roble Blanco by The Bruery is a 15% ABV Wheat Wine/Sour Ale Aged in Tequila Barrels with Lime Juice, Lime Zest and Salt.
Label:
¡Que Delicioso!
This tangy, Mexican inspired ale has an agave-like sweetness, balanced with zesty limes and just a hint of salt.
Living in Southern California, we’re huge fans of both Mexican cuisine and, of course, Mexican cocktails. This is a tribute to our favorite blended fiesta beverage
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Obtained as part of the Reserve Society membership, this beer was released as one of the mystery beers that was on the list for October. This beer is essentially a sour wheat ale that was aged in tequila to try and mimic the flavors of a margarita. I don’t know what to expect from this one. My only hope is that it is not too sweet or too sour but just right. I tend to gear more toward a balance when it comes to sours.
Aromas:
Lime candy, Bananas, plantains, Honey comb, sangria, mezal, tequila, oak, dulce de leche caramel, agave syrup, white raisins, honey dew melon, margarita, salt, grapefruit, coriander, orange, cinnamon hints, white wine, musty notes, leather and pecans.
Flavors:
Plantain, tequila, salt, agave syrup, white raisins, plums, apricot, margarita, lime candy, lime peel, rye, orange, grapefruit, blonde roasted barley, wheat grains, biscuit bread, sangria, mezcal, tejuino, bananas, oak, vanilla, dulde de leche caramel, honey, white wine, musty notes, raspberry skins, currants skints, dragon fruit peels, honey dew melon, cucumbers, mild coconut hints, leather notes, Danish pastry hints, capirotada raisin bread pudding, pecans, almonds, leche nestle condensed sweetened milk hints and apples.
Aftertaste:
Caramel, Lemon, Salt, Margarita, oak, honey comb, agave, tejuino and tequila finish. No alcohol in the taste, medium gold body, syrupy mouthfeel yet smooth and very drinkable for some damn reason making this one very dangerous drinking in one sitting.
Overall:
Such a damn resemblance to the salty lime tequila margarita it ain’t even funny. You really have to like that drink in order to understand how this one works. However, the only thing is that it is not overly sweet and the salt and lime clash for the balance to salty, sweet and sour. This cause the beer to be more balanced than a true sour. I had to stop drinking this for a while because it was way to damn drinkable for my own good and it was so delicious. Also that part of me that loves lemon and salt kicked into high gear so I may sound bias in my review but this one one hit certain sectors of flavors that were really awesome. I highly recommend it if you can find this one and you really like tequila, lime, salt and a ton of complexity.
Anime Corner:
Annet Myer/Futatabi from El Viento series was used in this pairing to go with the colors of the label but also the name as the work Roble means strong but also the act of aging which coincide with oak and tequila barrels. The rustling of lime trees to the wind or El Viento also link to the beer but also Annet herself since she has the colors of a margarita, she is the Roble Blanco or strong White and she is from Peru meaning Latina. She may not be Mexican, but she is bad ass and her magic abilities (Complex flavors) and strength (ABV) as well as the fact that she is fast as El Viento/TheWind (Smoothness) is enough to mess you up if you dare take her on!
Sources:
http://nidavellirstudios.deviantart.com/art/El-Viento-Annet-Myer-376359191
Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla by The Bruery
Rating: 5/5
Tart of Darkness Cherries & Vanilla by The Bruery is a 7.1% ABV American Wild Stout aged in Oak Barrels with Cherries and Vanilla Beans.
Label:
SAUERSTAUT
With a roasty aroma and a tart finish, this sour black ale is a contortion of style and flavor, creating an unexpected delight.
Tart of Darkness with Cherries & Vanilla is best enjoyed fresh for bold spice and fruit character, but my pleasantly if cellared properly.
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Released to the Preservation and Reserve Societies this fall. This beer is a variant to the publicly sold Tart of Darkness. I will be honest, while the tart of darkness is a very good sour, it does not compare to my favorite sour stout Madrugada Obscura by Jolly Pumpkin. The fact that they added the cherries and vanilla to this may actually make some kind of difference. I can only hope that this is the case. Let us see how this warrior fairs. Draw your puckeringly sour sword and get ready to take action!
Aromas:
Dark Cherry yogurt, Vanilla ice cream, caramel,Lavender, cotton candy, strawberry cheesecake, lemon peel, citrus, dark chocolate hints, blueberry skins, earthy notes, Cherry vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, molasses, anise, licorice, lemon peel, sour funky notes, citrus, port wine hints, blue berry muffin and brown sugar.
Flavors:
Blueberries, Vanilla cream, coconut, caramel, tart wine grapes, chocolate, lavender, dark cherry yogurt, strawberry cheese cake, brown sugar, blueberry muffin, lemon peel, Cherry Vanilla Dr. Pepper hints, dark fruits like prunes raisins, concord grape skins, port wine hints, oak, earthy notes and musty sour funky notes.
Aftertaste:
Tart wine grapes, oak, dark cherry yogurt hints, vanilla, coconut hints, and earthy notes finishing all fast and dry. No alcohol in the taste, a sipping beer, medium to full mouthfeel and with a murky amber brown full body.
Overall:
Way better than the original. I have no idea how the addition of the cherries and vanilla seem to suppress the overall ‘sour’ aspect of this beer making it more of a sweet tart. The original did not do as well as my favorite, Madrugada Obscura but tasting more sour than a balance of stout chocolate roastiness with sour aspects. This beer however, redeemed the original big time. While the chocolate aspect is there but hinted, the sweetness of cherry and vanilla change the aspect of the beer not just to make it fruity tart but also dessert like yet still puckeringly sour. Definitely recommended. So does it win against Madrugada Obscura? I guess it really depends on my mood. Chocolate coffee sour or Cherry Vanilla sour.
Anime Corner:
Saber Alter/Dark Saber from Fate/Stay Night/Hollow Ataraxia was used in this pairing since I used Jean from Claymore. Basically both represent the “Dark Knight” In the Tart of Darkness. You may not tell from the label, but a sword pierces through the cherry and in the original, there is a sword involved. The aspect of the warrior of darkness and the fact that I have used Saber in many Dark chocolate and cherry flavored beers just pushes my conviction that much further. The Dark Arts have to do with blasphemy against the church but the strange part, as holy as some organizations are, some hold deep dark secrets that the public never knows about. Tart of Darkness with Cherries and Vanilla brings that aspect of sour evil but yet sweet and forgiving aspects that are pretty damn Holy if you ask me. Think of it as the sweetness delivering the darkness of the beer from evil Either way, great beer and great pairing I think.
Sources:
https://omisyth.files.wordpress.com/2008/07/1217501555092.jpg
http://gallery.minitokyo.net/view/500829
Soroboruo by The Bruery
Rating: 5.75/5
Soroboruo by The Bruery is a 12% ABV Sour Wee Heavy aged in Scotch and Bourbon barrels with heather flowers.
Label:
WEE SOUR
Rich malt, sour funk, notes of oak and a floral balance. Unlike any Wee Heavy you’ve ever had.
Soroboruo is a backwards take on a Scotch Ale. Typically known for big toffee-like malt and subdued yeast flavors. Soroboruo allows our wild yeast and bacteria to shine full-heartedly, adding a delightful tartness, balanced by the soft floral notes of the heather flowers. Soroboruo is best enjoyed fresh, but may pleasantly evolve over time if cellared properly. Best stored and cellared around 55 °F (13 °C) in a dark place.
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Released by the Bruery as part of their Reserve Society releases. This beer was a surprise since it was one that was not listed and was one that was listed shortly after their release of Sucre. If you want to get your hands on this one, you may have to go ahead and trade for it. Unless the Bruery makes it available for release to the masses. I have never had a Sour Wee Heavy before and Wee Heavy Scottish ales are always awesome.
Aromas:
Dark fruit raisins, figs, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, proliferation of Sour wine grapes, funky musk, coconut, marshmallows, butterscotch, toffee, scotch whiskey, bourbon, marshmallows, coconut hints, leather, herbs, hibiscus flowers, honey, currants, smoked peat, tart cranberries, cherries, raspberries, chocolate notes, port wine, brown sugar, maple bar and black berry yogurt.
Flavors:
Sour funk notes, dark fruit raisins, figs, dates, wine grapes, funky notes, scotch whiskey, bourbon, wine grapes, tart cranberries, dulce de leche caramel, vanilla, oak, butterscotch, leather, marshmallows, coconut, honey, currants, smoked peat, flowers, hibiscus, dark chocolate, herbs, port wine, maple, black berry cheese cake, berry yogurt, hazelnut, pecan pie hints, citrus and molasses.
Aftertaste:
Dark fruit raisins, tart wine grapes and cranberries, toffee, rich caramel, vanilla, oak, molasses and earthy notes. Hints of alcohol in the taste but I think it is mainly the whiskey and wine like characters. A sipping beer for sure with a medium body.
Overall:
Let his one warm up, the flowers, scotch, bourbon and Wee Heavy aspect take over the tart sourness to make it awesomely balanced. This beer is quite the different one. I have never had a Wee Heavy and I really thought this one deserved some major credit. It is not all sour, you can tell there is a barrel aged wee heavy there. The sourness is only there enough to remind you that this beer is kind of evil but not. Overall delicious and recommended!
Anime Corner:
Reiko Mikami from the Ghost Sweeper Mikami Series was used in this beer to maintain the aspect of the beer that is still sacred, which is the Wee Heavy aspect you see, Mikami is a paranormal investigator and the demon Soroboruo is a Wee Heavy that went backwards on its style. It was possessed by wild yeast and is not longer the same. In other words tainted by evil. One can honestly say that maybe in truth, Soroboruo is a reflection of Reiko Mikami herself. While she fights her own inner demons. Like the fact that she is money hungry…lol! Regardless though, Reiko is one bad ass chick that no one fucks with and a bad ass Ghost Buster/Sweeper. Mikami is one of my first Anime favorite characters since back in the 90’s, so to bring her forth into this beer was a delicious move. She may seem a little sour on the outside but inside, she is all sweet and caring. The colors of the label and the flowers fit her perfectly. Let’s be honest too, Soroboruo looks like a Talisman and somewhat paranormal. That and the purple of her dress being the dark fruit aspect and the ABV her passion she has for what she does in her life.
Duck-Duck-Gooze edition 2013 by The Lost Abbey
Rating: 5/5
Duck-Duck-Gooze by The Lost Abbey is a 7% ABV World Class American Wild Ale
Label:
There’s an art to corralling a bunch of ducklings A nip to turn Suzy this way or a nudge to launch little Johnny towards the water and suddenly they are all lined up ready to follow along. Or are they? This isn’t something they teach you at Mother Gooze School. You see, there always seems to be that one duckling (or two) who has an agenda all their own. At that point, all bets are of. Then mama goose loses control and her inner Devil comes out.
Blending Oak Barrels can be a lot like corralling little ducklings. Each barrel has its own personality. Some, like good little ducklings, get in line from the very beginning. Others are quite more problematic and need more nurturing. Duck Duck Gooze is made from all sorts of barrels. Some were great from the beginning while others needed more attention. Duck Duck Gooze was three years in the making. We hope you find it worth the wait
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Only released exclusively at the Lost Abbey every 3 years since 2009, this beer ha made a return this year. Last year They could not do it as they had to make way for the Ultimate Box set which was released in 2012. This beer will be slated to release in 2016 again. The beer is made with 3 sets of barrels each aging 1, 2 and 3 years apart and then blended together. I was only lucky enough to get a single bottle eligible for review here at the site. Being probably the best sour ale ever released, I will do my best to review in as much detail as my ability will allow.
Aromas are very citrusy, lemon, lime, biscuit bread, funky bitter grapes, oak, peach, pears, hints of dragon fruit, earthy must, barnyard hay, floral notes, chamomile and roses
The flavors are musty, and citrusy but some very nice sweetness and oakiness lurks. Lemon, oranges, roses, hay, biscuit bread, chamomile, sour apple, apricot, sour lemon candy, teguacan (Mexican Lime and seltzer water with spices), pineapple, musty grapes and spices.
The aftertaste leaves like lemon on a sour fruit with oak. Basically, it leaves sour but then fades into like a fruity and hay finish. Clear body, but you definitely have to take your time with it
Overall this is puckeringly Awesome. It starts off sour but as you go on and it warms up, it gets good giving some really nice fruity, citrusy and oaky taste. You really have to enjoy sours to like this one, otherwise this beer may not be for you. I think this is one of the reasons it was made this way. Having an open taste to sour helps finding good flavors in them. Jolly Pumpkin helped out for many years to find it. The good thing is that this one is more tart than pure sour. Clearly some sours may be pure vinegar taste but some beers when done very well, are exceptionally awesome, like this one.
Oude Tart by the Bruery
Rating: 4.5/5
Oude Tart by the Bruery is a 7% ABV Flanders/Flemish Red ale aged in oak barrels.
Label:
Oude Tart is a Flemish-Style Red Ale aged in red wine barrels for 18 months. Pleasantly sour with hints of leather, dark fruit and toasty oak. Oude Tart is suitable for aging up to five years when cellared properly
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Of the many sour releases by the Bruery, I have not tried this one. This is readily available around the Fall season. There are a few Flanders Red ales that I have tried. The ones that I like are La Roja by Jolly Pumpkin and the Rodenbach Grand Cru. Let us give this one a shot and see how it goes.
Aromas are of caramel, funky wine grapes, tart cherries, red wine, raisins, lots of wood oak, leather, lemon, cellar mustiness, brown sugar and vanilla bread
The flavors are of toffee, caramel, vanilla, oak, wine grapes, tart cherries, cranberries, red wine, leather, raisins, lemons, raspberries, sour apples, tart raspberries and slight biscuit bread flavors
The aftertaste leaves with a tart cherry, leather and caramel flavors. The drinkability is definitely sipping and alcohol is hidden
Overall the beer is very good. More tart than sour. I think what allows for such is the fact that it is aged for a while in the oak but also the rich ingredients also counter some of the sourness. So while it is still a sour, it is more of a tart beer. This beer reminds me of La Roja by Jolly pumpkin but with more oak and less wine flavors. Definitely a good try if you love sours.
Justin Blåbær collaboration between Evil Twin, Westbrook brewing, and The Charleston Beer Exchange
Rating: 4.15/5
Justin Blåbær collaboration between Evil Twin, Westbrook brewing, and The Charleston Beer Exchange is a 4.5%ABV Berliner Weisse brewed with Blueberries
Label:
OMG! It’s JUSTIN BLABAER!!! If you have “Blabaer Fever,” then this is the only cure. We stuffed so many blueberries into this beer- it’s going to make you shout, “Oh, Baby!” This is dedicated to AVSB, A&F YFFL-EW, MW, RWM, BE, SS, RC.
A collaboration between Evil Twin Brewing, Westbrook Brewing Co, & The Charleston Beer Exchange.
Produced and bottled for Evil Twin brewing at Westbrook Brewing Co. in Mount Pleasant, SC.
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LMAO!! A beer to pun Justin Bieber and a disturbing label at that. The beer, flavors may be a different story all together. For being at an ABV 0.3% stronger than a Bud light, this session beer may actually be flavorful. According to BeersPulse.com (http://beerpulse.com/2013/07/evil-twin-justin-blabaer-mania-invades-cbx-on-tuesday-750/), Blåbær is Danish for Blueberries, and the “Justin” model in the label is actually Jeppe Jarnit-Bjergsø of Evil Twin Brewing
Aromas are of blueberries, coriander, pink grapefruit, raspberries, wheat, sour grapes, wine grapes, citrus, lemons, candy sugars and strawberries
The flavors are of wheat, biscuit bread, sour grapes, wine grapes, strawberries, tart blueberries, citrus, lemon, tart cherries, coriander, oak flavor and green apple.
The aftertaste is semi dry with a little bit of sweet wheat bread and tart blueberries. Very refreshing and easy to moderate level of drinkability.
Overall the beer is very good. There is just enough tartness and light bodied flavor to this from making it a complete sour. If you do not like sour or tart beers, this may or may not be for you. It has only a tart amount of sourness and does not overpower like an actual sour. Not quite sure if I am believer, but I do like Blåbær beers.
Bourbon Peach by Unity Vibration
Rating: 5/5 *Kombucha Rating
Bourbon Peach by Unity Vibration is a 7% ABV Kombucha Wild Ale brewed with peaches and aged in bourbon barrels
Label:
Our Bourbon Barrel Aged Kombucha has double the rich, delicious bourbon flavor as it ages with juicy, whole, organic peaches. This unique beverage is a culmination of the ancient process of kombucha brewing, paired with the newer brewing process of a uniquely American high gravity ale.
Reminiscent of summer campfires and refreshing swims in the great lakes, out kombucha beer is always unfiltered, raw and living. Taste the freshness and distinctive flavors you can only find with this process and unique combination
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First thing to note about this beverage, is that it is very important and I mean, VERY IMPORTANT!! to open near a sink. The moment I opened this beer, a lot of the pressure was released causing me to lose some of the liquid . Fortunately I saved a good portion of it. This the first time I try a Kombucha beer so I will try my best at reviewing this one.
Kombucha (昆布茶 or Japanese “Kelp Tea”), as referred to here (http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kombucha ) is a special type of effervescent fermented tea using bacteria and yeast as part of the fermentation. It was definitely effervescent since the bubbles would not stop even as type this. This sucker is really alive!! This also says it could be good for health. Well, that depends I guess. I cannot make any claims on that. Most Kombuchas are non alcoholic. This one is. So I guess it depends on the fermentation process used by Unity Vibration
Aromas of this are of mushrooms, apricot, funky notes, sourdough, vanilla, oak, peaches, lemon grass, vinegary grassy notes, pears, flowers and other fruits. The sour and funky fragrances come more across than the sweeter fruity side here.
The Flavors are… wow!… I was expecting this to be as strong as the nose. Not at all like the nose. The vinegary sour notes are only in the nose. The taste is much much sweeter with very nice tangy notes. Sweet Peaches, apples, pears, tangy cherry, sugar cubes, vanilla, slight oak, mushrooms, lemonade, grassy and vegetable notes, black tea, slight funky notes, sour dough bread, honey, peach preserves, light bourbon notes, maple syrup, brown sugar, coriander, wheat and grapefruit juice.
After taste us pretty dry leaving a little bit of a sugary plant feel. It tingles going down but easy to drink.
Overall was at awe as to how different this beer was. It somewhat defies logic in taste and aromatic expectations. They seem very different. This is a very unique forth coming creation into the craft beer movement. I am not sure if it should be categorized as beer as it falls into the realms of beer/cider/wine/tea/mead and lambics. Very unique stuff and very delicious in its own category.
Otiose by the Bruery
Rating: 4.45/5
Otiose by the Bruery is a 8.2%ABV Sour Brown Ale Aged in Oak with Guava.
Label:
Created for no purpose besides satisfying an intense craving. Pleasantly tart with tropical notes balanced by roast malt.
Description:
Defined as “serving no practical purpose”, the recipe for Otiose was developed during a rare break in the brewing schedule; a recipe we came up with to satisfy our own desires and nothing more. The result is a sour brown ale aged in oak barrels to which we added guava. Riddled with tropical notes which are balanced by it’s malty backbone, Otiose is a rich and decadent sour ale. 8.2%, Cellerable for up to 3 years.
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The fragrance of this beer are of sour wine grapes, notes of caramel, guava, lemon citrus, passion fruit, plum notes, apples, cranberry, raspberry, oak and vanilla. Aside from the sour grape wine flavor, this beer has some nice sweet notes. Flavors of pecan, guava, banana notes, cherry, raspberry, caramel, toffee, vanilla, oak, brown sugar, citrus, lemon, grapefruit, honey, some toasted rye bread and some sour funkyness. The beer is quite balanced. There is enough tart and caramel notes to make it pretty interesting. This is similar to some of the great Jolly Pumpkin ales. So if you love sours, have fun trying this one 😛
Filmishmish (في المشمش) by The Bruery
Rating: 4.65/5
Filmishmish (في المشمش) by The Bruery is a 5.8% ABV Sour Blonde Ale aged in Oak with Apricots
Label:
Tart and Fruity with notes of oak and grandma’s homemade jam.
Description:
Filmishmish, an Arabic term for “when the apricots bloom”, is a barrel aged sour blonde ale to which apricots have been added. The beer’s already fruity esters are enhanced by the hint of fresh apricot jam and wood shavings. Filmishmish is a well balanced beer, keeping the apricot and oak character present, but putting the flavor of the well formed sour ale at the forefront.
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First the Strawberries, then come the apricots. The aromas of this beer are of apricots, peaches, sout grapes, oak, citrus, lemon, apples, honey, sweet peach preserves, almost like wine funkyness. The flavors are of sour apricots, vanilla, stone fruits like plum and cherry, brown sugar, melted whole sugar cone, mushroom notes like the Fantome beers, lemon citrus, apples, peaches, honey notes, wine grapes, oak, floral spices, apricot or peach preserves on biscuit bread. Aftertaste leaves with apricots and honey alone with some dry sour grape and lemon notes. This was pretty good. Very balanced and not just pure sour. Almost like a Jolly Pumpkin or a Fantome beer. This beer is sour overall but has enough fruity tartness to not make displeasing. If you are still not into sours, this will probably be good to try. It really is good and not overpowering with sourness.
Ichigo Highway Collaboration by The Bruery and Hangar 24
Rating: 4.6/5
Ichigo Highway Collaboration by The Bruery and Hangar 24 is a 5.5% ABV American Wild Red Ale aged in red wine barrels with strawberries.
Label:
The Bruery & Hangar 24 are divided by the 15 Highway, but brought together by a shared love of experimental brews. Ichigo, meaning both “strawberry” and the numbers 1 and 5 in Japanese, is a complex, sour red ale aged with strawberries picked from the fields next to Hangar 24’s brewery. Ichigo Highway is best enjoyed fresh due to the fleeting aroma and flavor of strawberries. Best stored and cellared around 55 degrees F (13 degrees C). Ideal serving temperature is 50 degress F (10 degrees C). Best served in a tulip or wine glass.
DESCRIPTION:
Ichigo Highway is a collaborative beer that we created with Hangar 24 Brewing from Redlands, CA. The base style is a sessionable sour red ale that we aged in oak barrels along with a whopping amount of strawberries, most of which were picked from the fields besides Hangar 24’s brewery. Aged for approximately 8 months, this beer has developed a pleasant funk and a delightful acidity that is balanced by the intensely sweet aroma and flavor of the strawberries as well as a unique dryness achieved by using a sake yeast along with our house strain along with souring bacteria. Available in November. 5.5% ABV, Best enjoyed fresh due to the fleeting aroma and flavor of the strawberries
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Being an anime fan and a big fan of the show “Bleach”, I anticipated this review for a long time ago since the beer released way back when. A very hard to find beer unless you are a member of the Reserve or Hoarders Society. I was able to trade for this brew in order to bring Ichigo, the shinigami here to the stage. One of the things to note about the fragrances about this beer, is that there is alof of strong ripe strawberry aromas but also the grape wine aromas are there too as well as this sugary scent of strawberry preserves. You can also sense the funkyness and citrus like many sour beers. Some grapefruit, apricots, apples and cinnamon as well. While still tart and sour to the smell, it is also very floral too. Like hibiscus and roses. The flavors are very much sour as expected. A ton of bitter ripe strawberries, apricot, apples, sour wine grapes, lemon, grapefruit, slight cinnamon spice, wine oak funkyness, and a bit of sake and tea like flavors . You will only like this beer if you enjoy sours, let’s put it that way. I happen to enjoy some sour beers like Jolly pumpkin for example. The sweeter flavors actually start to come out as the beer warms up. Yep, aside from the name being Ichigo, if you do not like sours even if your a fan of the “Bleach” show, you may not like this one. Which then I assume that only people that like sours will like this one. It is a very good sour. It happens to be a bonus for me as I enjoy craft beers, sours, anime and “Bleach” 8)
Noel de Calabaza by Jolly Pumpkin
Noel de Calabaza by Jolly Pumpkin is their Belgian Strong Holiday Ale. Brewed in tradition for the holidays and truly good at that. While a lot of the character of JP beers have a sour/tart flavor that overwhelms at times, this one is rather smooth and sweet. The lemony zest, cherry, and apple that comes from the JP tart goodness compliments the other flavors well. The biggest character is the Belgian yeast and spice that comes through. Almost like a pumpkin banana bread flavor to the taste. Surely other flavors like brown sugar, toffee, a little vanilla, minor bourbon, and roasted chocolate is there too. At 9% alcohol, you don’t feel it at first, but you do feel it a bit later. After I poured the rest of the bottle, the bottom sediment was really hard to remove. Added a little water and stirred the bottle for quite a while. Eventually it all gave way. It was all the yeast that had settled. Even with a little water, it tasted like pumpkin pie. It was so good to the last drop. What a way to end the year. After trying all the JPs beers so far I have to admit, JP will be one of my all time favorite brewers along with Lost Abbey/Port Brewing, Stone, St. Bernardus, Unibroue, Dogfish Head, Brewdog, Three Floyds and Ballast Point. In the new year I will be sure to give newer beers a test 😛
Brewerianimelogs (Anime and Beer Lore) 
