Russian River Brewing Company Consecration Sour / Wild Ale at 10% ABV (US$13.20 at Russian River Brewing Company, 375 ml, packaged on 16-Dec-2016, acquired 18-Jun-2017, reviewed 20-Jun-2017)
Appearance: clear amber-brown with one finger of short-lived loose ivory head, minimal lacing. (3/5) Aroma: complex, dark fruits and red berries, balsamic vinegar, oak, tobacco, chocolate, vanilla. (9/10) Taste: moderate-high tart, moderate-low sweet, minimal bitter. (9/10) Palate: medium body, moderate-low carbonation, off-dry tart finish. (4/5)
And I think that sets a new record for the sheer number of beers by one brewery in a given period for me: 14, in the past three days. (I’m not sure I want to try challenging that in future, to be honest: it’s a little tiring, especially since I had another 10 from other sources interspersed in there – all while attending training all day! I’d say I’m not as young as I used to be, but realistically, I don’t think a younger me could have handled this schedule. I am a drinking, learning, machine!) Big vinous notes lead the way here, and then carry the day pretty much the entire way to the finish. There’s a bit of carbonation initially, but that settles out fairly rapidly, leaving something that approaches a hybrid of beer and red wine. Somewhat surprisingly, the double-digit ABV remains almost entirely absent, not even manifesting as a particularly noticeable warming in the finish – really very well done. Another one for which I really just intended to establish a baseline before cellaring – but probably the most mature of that particular selection, and very enjoyable right now. (17/20)
My 241st from the 2010 Edition of 1001 Beers You Must Taste Before You Die, 230th from the 2013 edition, and 253rd combining both editions.
8.5/10 #1001beers #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
