Burnt Hair Aroma?

[mattlins]

So, this isn't technically a commercial beer. But, I just went to a local brewpub and ordered a belgian something (sorry I know that's vague). However the first thing I noticed when I put my nose to it was a strong burnt hair smell.

I didn't particularly enjoy it, but I can't say I've ever experienced that with any beer. Anyone know what I could be picking up? It's not my cup of tea, but I'm just wondering if it's true to some particular style...

 

[throwbookatface]

All I can think of is esters - you thinking of a band-aid or plasticky smell? Those are kind of close to burnt hair to me...

 

[carnevoodoo]

Yeah, that sounds like phenolic esters to me. You won't find it in all Belgian beer, thankfully, but it can be a characteristic of some strains of yeast. You get to be the judge of which ones you like.

 

[throwbookatface]

I love banana oil (synthesized some in chem lab once - it's weird combining noxious chemicals and in one last step making the entire laboratory smell like banana glory). Kwak has a LOT of this amazing ester!