Killian:
I just uncorked one tonight. Now let me preface by saying I am not a huge fan of sour beers. I don't dislike them, they are just hit and miss for me. This beer was exactly as I had hoped. It has a very pronounced sourness that brings the pucker up front on the first sip. By the second or third sip my taste buds tuned into the flavor and I really started enjoying this sour ale. It is well done and well aged. Vinnie, and Russian River are way on their game with this one.
I'd say I took about 45 minutes to get through the 13 oz bottle. The flavor is intensely sour, with just a hint of the sour cherry riding through the center of the palate, yet smoothly balanced, sort of like a fine whiskey. The flavor starts boldly clean and sour, and carries through the palate without missing a beat. Defintely a beer to be sipped and savorred. I preferred the taste as the beer warmed some. It came out of a 39 degree keezer. The flavor peaked about 20-30 minutes in, and then as the beer further warmed I felt it was not quite as good as it was at the 20-30 minute time frame, although it never approaced unpalatable.
Now I don't mean to tell you all this just to make you further suffer. I hate to think of a fellow brew brother in need if I can help. I am more than happy to offer to send you one, particularly if you are a fan of such beers. I just would like something local in return. Doesn't have to be a sour. As I said, I am hit and miss with them. I like a moderate range of styles, but IPA and lighter colored Belgians are my favorites. If you have access to Bell's Two Hearted, a couple bottles of that would be great. I know I'm asking 2 for 1, but the supplication is running $13 a bottle. Let me know.
Cheers
