Cascade Brewing Kriek (2020) – Kriek at 7.9% ABV (C$19.95 at Collective, 500 ml, no packaging date or best before, acquired 10-Jun-2021, reviewed 15-Jun-2021)
Appearance: slightly hazy ruby red with two fingers of loudly fizzy pink head, excellent retention and spotty lacing. (4/5) Aroma: cherries, oak, malt vinegar. (9/10) Taste: moderate sweet, moderate-high tart, low bitter. (8/10) Palate: medium-light body, moderate-lively carbonation, off-dry tart tannic finish. (4/5)
I think this is more a re-imagining, than a new version, of their Kriek Ale I had about five years ago. I’m not getting the same intensity of Flanders Red umami / malt vinegar note in this one, and the colour is much lighter. They say this one is a blend of sour red and blonde ales, and while I don’t recall whether the previous had the blonde, this one definitely doesn’t have the same brown undertone of a Flanders Red. Cherries definitely carry the day here, without bringing excessive sweetness. The finish is off-dry and tart, with a tannic woody edge. Really nice slow sipper. (17/20)
8.5/10 ryansbooze.com #ryansbooze
