After a short break to post an evaluation for a bit of an odd one yesterday, it is back to the Ithaca brews (from Cousin Daniel) for today and tomorrow.
At the time I opened and shared this one with a few members of the family, I believe that it was the first sour for me. Even after this one I have not had too many more like it. This was not a big hit with those I shared it with and it was one that had me sitting with a confused look on my face (more so than usual). The style is something that I have to be in the mood for and is one that I think I will come around to as I am exposed to it more often. I suppose not unlike the super hoppy beers that I often crave now.
And on we go . . .
Brewery: Ithaca Beer Co. (Ithaca, NY)
Name: Brute
Style: Golden Sour Ale (per brewery site)
ABV: 7.0%
Tasting Notes: Stored in a cooler (not cold), then chilled for an hour or so in a fridge and served in (my Ithaca Beer Co.) pint glass. Bottle marked with batch E!018. Also served on family lobster night in Maine!
Aroma: Mild overall aroma that has a slight earthy/woodiness and a somewhat grapey/wine-like character.
Appearance: Pale golden color. Three finger white head consisting of tiny bubbles that dissipates quickly and leaves a slight laced trail. Clear with a slight haze and some tiny visible rising bubbles.
Flavor: Fairly mild flavor with a citrus-like fruity sweetness and no noticeable hop characters. Some dryness and citrus-like sourness at the finish that does not really linger.
Mouthfeel: Light body with high carbonation. Some sharpness on the palate and very champagne-like overall.
Overall Impressions: New and different flavor profiles for me (in a good way). I would serve and drink this in a champagne flute next time. Gets better as I drink a bit more. Not necessarily my style (at least yet), but enjoyable.
Grade: B(ish)
Ithaca Beer Co. - Brute (still in the bottle)
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