High Lift
Hopworks Brewery

 

really cool beer here, one of, if not the very first, sour i have had or seen from these guys. its quality stuff, and while i believe its a kettle sour, it drinks like a flanders red, with the fuller grain profile to it, a smart call and a cool point of differentiation for it, especially with the cherries. i love that this isnt so sour, an easy pint can to drink and without any real vinegar or acetic notes, its much cleaner than that. the richer grains obviously absorb some perceived pucker, but they also add some nice depth, toasted and earthy, a touch of sweetness that matches the natural sweetness of the cherries, and just a beautiful deep amber color to this, nice looking brew. there is almost an english maltiness in the nose, more background in the taste, and the cherries are but one of many layers of flavor, natural and moderately dosed, i get some raisin here too, wheat bagel, lemon twang, and even a raspberry tart as well. its got a nice medium body and a ton of carbonation which i love in the style, and its very tidy, no weirdness, sweatiness, or cheesy character from the souring or the ferment, very professionally done. some will wish for more fruit or less malt but i like the balance achieved here, this is quite unique in an increasingly standardized category, much appreciated!