Epic Brewing Brainless on Raspberries (Release #38) Belgian Strong Pale Ale at 9.8% ABV (C$19.00 at Sherbrooke Liquor, 650 ml, bottle date 7-May-2015)
Appearance: clear ruby red, one finger of fine white head diminishing rapidly to a thin skim, patchy lacing. (3/5) Aroma: tart raspberries, pale malt, vinous, light floral. (7/10) Taste: moderate-high sweet, moderate tart, mild bitter. (7/10) Light body, lively carbonation, crisp tart finish. (3/5)
Not without its charms, but very much raspberry dominant. There’s a little musty vinous on the nose and towards the end, but for the most part, this is all about raspberry tartness. Which isn’t a criticism, by any means, but it’s definitely a much simpler experience than e.g. a Cantillon Rosé de Gambrinus. On the other hand, it gives precisely zero indications that it’s almost 10%ABV, so you could give it to the kids and claim it’s raspberry soda, if you wanted a night of peace and quiet… (Disclaimer: I’m not advocating drugging your children. I haven’t gotten to that point. Yet.) (14/20)
7/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
