Naparbier Crimson Bird Saison with Raspberries Saison at 6.1% ABV (2016 Craft Beer Advent Calendar #7, 330 ml, bottle date 20-Jul-2016, best before 31-Jul-2017, acquired 25-Sep-2016, reviewed 7-Dec-2016)
Appearance: hazy pinkish pale amber with two fingers of fluffy off-white head, good retention and minimal lacing. (3/5) Aroma: raspberry, citrus, lightly vinous yeasty funk. (6/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate tart, light bitter. (6/10) Palate: medium-light body, lively to moderate carbonation, off-dry tart slightly funky finish. (3/5)
Not really all that Saison-ish: the raspberry tart dominates, and any funk is left far behind in its dust. Plus, there’s the old familiar argument about the appropriateness of high(er) ABV’s in Saisons. As a fruit beer, it’s not bad, but as a Saison, it’s a bit of a muddled mess. Still and all, not a bad little drink. And I guess I have to give points for a seriously metal label! \m/(-.-)\m/ (12/20)
6/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
