Though I do enjoy standing in the store staring at the shelves trying to decide what beer I want, it also nice to go in with a plan of attack. Having narrowed the field down to only Great Divide brews I was simply looking for one of them to catch my eye. A high gravity version of a witbier was an easy choice knowing that I do not see them often, if at all.
After initially not expecting to enjoy this one, The Wife quickly warmed to it and even went back for a bit more. I always consider that to be a pretty good endorsement. That combined with a unique style (at least somewhat) is more than enough reason to try it if you have the opportunity.
Brewery: Great Divide Brewing Co. (Denver, CO)
Name: Double Wit
Style: Witbier
ABV: 8.1%
Tasting Notes: Stored in the wine fridge (51 degrees +/-) and served in a pilsner glass.
Aroma: Light wheat/grainy sweetness with a faint bit of spice. Hint of acidity (kind of sauvignon blanc/white wine-like).
Appearance: Medium straw color (to golden). Very tall, thick, frothy, off-white head with good retention and laced trail. Mostly clear with slight haze and tons of tiny rising bubbles.
Flavor: Honey-like sweetness with a bit of citrus fruitiness. Low spice (coriander) profile with slight acidity and dryness at finish (not lingering). Well-balanced components.
Mouthfeel: Medium body with moderate to high carbonation (without bite). Smooth with good creaminess and noticeable warmth toward finish.
Overall Impressions: One of only two higher gravity witbiers that I can recall having (Sam Adams Imperial White being the other). The warmth blends in well with the flavor profiles. Might want to drink it slightly colder than I had it this time. Good throughout, but the first tastes were the best. As the name indicates, this is certainly a double/imperial version of this style (typically in a 4.5-5.5% ABV range).
Grade: B+
Double what?
Great Divide Brewing Co. - Double Wit
The initial pour stirred things up a bit.
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