Le Trou du Diable Capitaine Simcoe Sour / Wild Ale at 4.8% ABV (C$6.01 at NLC Stavanger, 600 ml, packaged on 14-Dec-2018, acquired 31-Jul-2019, reviewed 3-Aug-2019)
Appearance: slightly hazy deep gold with one fat finger of loose white head diminishing gradually to nothing, minimal lacing. (3/5) Aroma: bright citrus, tropical fruit, herbal, tart lactic, pine, grass. (8/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate tart, mild bitter. (8/10) Palate: medium-light body, moderate carbonation, medium tart and mild bitter finish. (4/5)
Yeah, I know, I’m being a bit of a hypocrite here, having railed against kettle sours for so long as I have, and then turning around and trying this one. But, this one isn’t just your typical kettle sour, but one in which the Simcoe hopping comes through loud and clear, making for an interesting blend of characteristics. Not to mention, I think it might be the first SMaSH sour I’ve had, with Pearl as the only malt. All in all, loads of flavour (all the more impressive given its age!) and balanced tartness on a light ABV make this very easy drinking. (16/20)
8/10 #ryansbooze ryansbooze.com
