Baladin Nora | Birrificio Le Baladin
Brewed by:
Birrificio Le Baladin
Italy
birreria.com
Style: Herbed / Spiced Beer
Alcohol by volume (ABV): 6.80%
Availability: Year-round
Notes / Commercial Description:
This Egyptian inspired brew is spiced with ginger, myrrh, and orange peel ... very complex.
Added by BeerAdvocate on 07-01-2002
View: Beers | Place Reviews | Events
Reviews: 140 | Ratings: 319
4.04/5 rDev 0%
look: 4 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
On tap at Grand Cafe L'Aquila in Philadelphia, PA. Served in a stemmed glass.
Appearance: Hazy orange amber color with a thin dense white foam. Some persistent lacing in fine strands noted.
Smell: Faint floral aroma, a bit of orange peel and a little bready.
Taste: At first, like a bready wheat ale, but with some underlying sweetness and a complex blend of flavors. I could get the orange peel at times, but it wasn't as bitter as I was expecting. The finish is not something I can describe. Sweet, floral, lightly bitter, and something else. I'm guessing that's the Myrrh. I can't say I tasted the ginger other than an occasional underlying spiciness. Delicate and complex is how I would describe the flavor of this beer.
Mouthfeel: Very smooth, light carbonation, chewy.
Overall / Drinkability: A very unique beer. Not something I would drink all night, but very glad I tried it. Went well with salad and pasta carbonara.
★ 953 characters
look: 4 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
On tap at Grand Cafe L'Aquila in Philadelphia, PA. Served in a stemmed glass.
Appearance: Hazy orange amber color with a thin dense white foam. Some persistent lacing in fine strands noted.
Smell: Faint floral aroma, a bit of orange peel and a little bready.
Taste: At first, like a bready wheat ale, but with some underlying sweetness and a complex blend of flavors. I could get the orange peel at times, but it wasn't as bitter as I was expecting. The finish is not something I can describe. Sweet, floral, lightly bitter, and something else. I'm guessing that's the Myrrh. I can't say I tasted the ginger other than an occasional underlying spiciness. Delicate and complex is how I would describe the flavor of this beer.
Mouthfeel: Very smooth, light carbonation, chewy.
Overall / Drinkability: A very unique beer. Not something I would drink all night, but very glad I tried it. Went well with salad and pasta carbonara.
★ 953 characters
2.95/5 rDev -27%
look: 2.75 | smell: 3.25 | taste: 3 | feel: 2.5 | overall: 2.75
Dark orange, cloudy, with a paper thin head and tons of brown spice sediment floating around then settling to the bottom.
Like a Moroccan apple pie, with fresh, just poached apple, and some citrus in the background.
Don't let the apple pie description make you think sweet. In a way, it's a little toward the savory side.
It's a bit gritty and spicy due to all the unfiltered spice within.
★ 392 characters
look: 2.75 | smell: 3.25 | taste: 3 | feel: 2.5 | overall: 2.75
Dark orange, cloudy, with a paper thin head and tons of brown spice sediment floating around then settling to the bottom.
Like a Moroccan apple pie, with fresh, just poached apple, and some citrus in the background.
Don't let the apple pie description make you think sweet. In a way, it's a little toward the savory side.
It's a bit gritty and spicy due to all the unfiltered spice within.
★ 392 characters
3.95/5 rDev -2.2%
look: 3.5 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
Amber color with a three fingers head with great retention and leaving some laces.
Aroma of orange peel, some non-identifiable resin– actually like an incense, wheat and mild ginger.
Citrusy flavor with notes of ginger, lemon, orange peel, perfume, wheat (Kamut?), cloves and I guess myrrh which is quite present. Dry aftertaste with an aromatic finish (in your mouth).
Light body with somewhat effervescent carbonation. Alcohol of 6.8% is absent.
Unique perfumy beer that delivers the promised flavors and aromas. Myrrh gave an enigmatic feeling to the beer. Church in your mouth. This should pair perfectly with Lebanese food.
★ 630 characters
look: 3.5 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
Amber color with a three fingers head with great retention and leaving some laces.
Aroma of orange peel, some non-identifiable resin– actually like an incense, wheat and mild ginger.
Citrusy flavor with notes of ginger, lemon, orange peel, perfume, wheat (Kamut?), cloves and I guess myrrh which is quite present. Dry aftertaste with an aromatic finish (in your mouth).
Light body with somewhat effervescent carbonation. Alcohol of 6.8% is absent.
Unique perfumy beer that delivers the promised flavors and aromas. Myrrh gave an enigmatic feeling to the beer. Church in your mouth. This should pair perfectly with Lebanese food.
★ 630 characters
4.6/5 rDev +13.9%
look: 4.5 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.5
11.2 oz bottle served into a Reidel wine glass.
A wheat beer with a blend of myrrh, ginger and orange that is like incense in a glass for the nose. The wheat gives it a clean followthrough for the mouth with a gentle carbonation which doesn't over power.
Take your time with this. It is a sipper.
★ 298 characters
look: 4.5 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.75 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.5
11.2 oz bottle served into a Reidel wine glass.
A wheat beer with a blend of myrrh, ginger and orange that is like incense in a glass for the nose. The wheat gives it a clean followthrough for the mouth with a gentle carbonation which doesn't over power.
Take your time with this. It is a sipper.
★ 298 characters
4.13/5 rDev +2.2%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
750ml
Gold Foil/Capped
Pours a pretty nice clean/clear dark golden orange color, very nice carbonation, with a small quick creamy off-white head, which leaves some sticky lacing behind. The nose is malty, yeasty, with some cherries, honey. The taste is malty, yeasty, nice cherry note, sweet, slight spice, very slight tart note. Medium body. Overall, a very tasty brew.
★ 371 characters
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
750ml
Gold Foil/Capped
Pours a pretty nice clean/clear dark golden orange color, very nice carbonation, with a small quick creamy off-white head, which leaves some sticky lacing behind. The nose is malty, yeasty, with some cherries, honey. The taste is malty, yeasty, nice cherry note, sweet, slight spice, very slight tart note. Medium body. Overall, a very tasty brew.
★ 371 characters
3.89/5 rDev -3.7%
look: 3.75 | smell: 2.75 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 3.75
On draft in a tulip. Golden with slight haze. Not a lot on the nose. Luxuriant, velvety mouthfeel. Taste is subtle and perfumy with a floral finish. It's really the uniqueness of the flavor that stood out for me.
★ 212 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 2.75 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 3.75
On draft in a tulip. Golden with slight haze. Not a lot on the nose. Luxuriant, velvety mouthfeel. Taste is subtle and perfumy with a floral finish. It's really the uniqueness of the flavor that stood out for me.
★ 212 characters
3.75/5 rDev -7.2%
look: 3.75 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
Tasted in a Kwak Glass. Clear amber colour, big head that holds on. Smell is spicy, ginger, pepper, caramel. Clean silky palate, medium body. Taste is spicy too: ginger, black pepper, notes of caramel. Sweet finish. Really good stuff.
★ 234 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
Tasted in a Kwak Glass. Clear amber colour, big head that holds on. Smell is spicy, ginger, pepper, caramel. Clean silky palate, medium body. Taste is spicy too: ginger, black pepper, notes of caramel. Sweet finish. Really good stuff.
★ 234 characters
4.19/5 rDev +3.7%
look: 4 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
rich deep amber, a spiced wheat beer, smell of herbs and citrus and the taste is the same, a thicker mouthful feel and overall a solid beer, a little pricey but had in a restaurant and could not concentrate on flavor as much as I would like. will like another chance.
★ 268 characters
look: 4 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
rich deep amber, a spiced wheat beer, smell of herbs and citrus and the taste is the same, a thicker mouthful feel and overall a solid beer, a little pricey but had in a restaurant and could not concentrate on flavor as much as I would like. will like another chance.
★ 268 characters
4/5 rDev -1%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Poured a well carbonated dark gold with little bit of head and lace. The aroma is light/airy and the ginger does come through so it's slightly sweet. Beer is light bodied, easy to drink, almost watery, has a spicy edge and bit of citric but mostly a mild ginger sweetness. Finishes crisp and bubbly thanks to lively carbonation. Not much going on in this beer but what is going on is pretty interesting and very tasty beer.
★ 427 characters
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Poured a well carbonated dark gold with little bit of head and lace. The aroma is light/airy and the ginger does come through so it's slightly sweet. Beer is light bodied, easy to drink, almost watery, has a spicy edge and bit of citric but mostly a mild ginger sweetness. Finishes crisp and bubbly thanks to lively carbonation. Not much going on in this beer but what is going on is pretty interesting and very tasty beer.
★ 427 characters
4.07/5 rDev +0.7%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
Pours a murky umber w eggshell lacing. The nose is crystallized ginger, cummin, and a hint of blood orange. On the palate, whole wheat, citrus and cloves are most apparent with the aromatic notes in strong support. Mouthfeel is pleasantly thick and coating, unexpectedly so for a wheat beer. Pairs well w a Quadrella di Buffala cheese from Italia. This is intriguing enough to interest me in more of what Italian craft has to offer, despite the price tag.
★ 455 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
Pours a murky umber w eggshell lacing. The nose is crystallized ginger, cummin, and a hint of blood orange. On the palate, whole wheat, citrus and cloves are most apparent with the aromatic notes in strong support. Mouthfeel is pleasantly thick and coating, unexpectedly so for a wheat beer. Pairs well w a Quadrella di Buffala cheese from Italia. This is intriguing enough to interest me in more of what Italian craft has to offer, despite the price tag.
★ 455 characters
4.03/5 rDev -0.2%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
On tap at 'Champs' in State College, PA - Snifter glass
L: Pours a deep golden brown, somewhat hazy with a moderate white head.
S: Herbal and complex, it claims to be brewed with Myrrh, ginger, and orange peel. Definitely some ginger on the nose and several different flavors are here. Almost like an herbal tea.
T-F: Complex and herbal/spicy, and some flavors that I can't definitely identify (myrrh? I've only heard of it... never sampled). Definite citrus notes and a mild ginger warmth at the finish. Significant carbonation.
O: A very unusual brew and better than any other Italian beer I've tried (going against my rule of thumb for Italy... wine: yes - beer: no). The closest thing I can compare it to is the 'Midas Touch' from Dogfish head, but it's lacking some of the honey sweetness and "Midas' is superior in my estimation. One glass in a sitting was enough and probably a bit too herbal, but definitely a complex flavor that I'd sample again.
★ 973 characters
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
On tap at 'Champs' in State College, PA - Snifter glass
L: Pours a deep golden brown, somewhat hazy with a moderate white head.
S: Herbal and complex, it claims to be brewed with Myrrh, ginger, and orange peel. Definitely some ginger on the nose and several different flavors are here. Almost like an herbal tea.
T-F: Complex and herbal/spicy, and some flavors that I can't definitely identify (myrrh? I've only heard of it... never sampled). Definite citrus notes and a mild ginger warmth at the finish. Significant carbonation.
O: A very unusual brew and better than any other Italian beer I've tried (going against my rule of thumb for Italy... wine: yes - beer: no). The closest thing I can compare it to is the 'Midas Touch' from Dogfish head, but it's lacking some of the honey sweetness and "Midas' is superior in my estimation. One glass in a sitting was enough and probably a bit too herbal, but definitely a complex flavor that I'd sample again.
★ 973 characters
3.99/5 rDev -1.2%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
I have been getting really really into the Italians lately, and these guys are among the best. this is a cool little beer, definitely overpriced, but they all are I feel like from Italy. a wheat base it feels like, hazy and just bronzed a little, with a tall white head. it smells herbal, but I cant place any of the herbs. its not quite tea, not quite dried flowers, not quite citrusy, but in proximity to all of that. still it seems simpler than that on the taste, delicate for sure, with a really distinct and pungent yeast strain and a definitely fruit quality in the finish. a touch of sweetness like clover honey brings it together, and the hops are like dried straw in a field. carbonation is awesome, feel is rich and round for what it is. I had a really hard time picking out exactly what the spices in here were, but the whole is a really nice drink. I wish we could get four packs of this for what single bottles cost, that's my only complaint
★ 954 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
I have been getting really really into the Italians lately, and these guys are among the best. this is a cool little beer, definitely overpriced, but they all are I feel like from Italy. a wheat base it feels like, hazy and just bronzed a little, with a tall white head. it smells herbal, but I cant place any of the herbs. its not quite tea, not quite dried flowers, not quite citrusy, but in proximity to all of that. still it seems simpler than that on the taste, delicate for sure, with a really distinct and pungent yeast strain and a definitely fruit quality in the finish. a touch of sweetness like clover honey brings it together, and the hops are like dried straw in a field. carbonation is awesome, feel is rich and round for what it is. I had a really hard time picking out exactly what the spices in here were, but the whole is a really nice drink. I wish we could get four packs of this for what single bottles cost, that's my only complaint
★ 954 characters
4.04/5 rDev 0%
look: 3.25 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
(L74-75/120 - poured into a balloon)
A: poured mostly clear at first, though a bit of sediment did sneak through, murkin' it all up... light, bright, orange-y amber... not much head formed, messy puddles of bubbles left behind
S: freshly-cracked green and/or black peppercorns, even a hint of dried hot red pepper, and orange flouride - the intensity and clarity of the pepper aroma is incredible - never smelled a beer like it... a little perfumy, like dandelion flowers, in the back end... later, super soft booze and a light caramel
T: quite an American IPA citrus fruitiness... the peppery aroma doesn't translate nearly as intensely on the palate - perhaps a little flare in the finish along with clementine rind, faint citrus acids, and a touch of granola-dusted taffy
M: broad and smooth - much more like pear nectar than malt beer... would be nice if it was a bit more sharp and alive on the palate... I suppose it's moderately dry - all that sticks back is the sediment, a bit... cozy, mellow, boozy warmth after it's all gone
O: hmmm... guessing this might be a tad aged... I would imagine this would smell and taste much more dynamic fresh... the way it stands now, I've had several American beers (IPAs) that taste quite similar to this, minus the peculiar peppery element... curious to try it again, just have to be willing to fork over the dough otra vez
★ 1,374 characters
look: 3.25 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
(L74-75/120 - poured into a balloon)
A: poured mostly clear at first, though a bit of sediment did sneak through, murkin' it all up... light, bright, orange-y amber... not much head formed, messy puddles of bubbles left behind
S: freshly-cracked green and/or black peppercorns, even a hint of dried hot red pepper, and orange flouride - the intensity and clarity of the pepper aroma is incredible - never smelled a beer like it... a little perfumy, like dandelion flowers, in the back end... later, super soft booze and a light caramel
T: quite an American IPA citrus fruitiness... the peppery aroma doesn't translate nearly as intensely on the palate - perhaps a little flare in the finish along with clementine rind, faint citrus acids, and a touch of granola-dusted taffy
M: broad and smooth - much more like pear nectar than malt beer... would be nice if it was a bit more sharp and alive on the palate... I suppose it's moderately dry - all that sticks back is the sediment, a bit... cozy, mellow, boozy warmth after it's all gone
O: hmmm... guessing this might be a tad aged... I would imagine this would smell and taste much more dynamic fresh... the way it stands now, I've had several American beers (IPAs) that taste quite similar to this, minus the peculiar peppery element... curious to try it again, just have to be willing to fork over the dough otra vez
★ 1,374 characters
4.96/5 rDev +22.8%
look: 4.75 | smell: 5 | taste: 5 | feel: 4.75 | overall: 5
Dark, cloudy, unfiltered appearance. Orange-brown in color. Wonderful sweet smell. Delicious full citrus, spicy flavor. Minimal carbonation, fairly flat. Full bodied feel in the month; fairly heavy. Great flavor. Delicious. I had two glasses when at a restaurant tonight and want more!
★ 285 characters
look: 4.75 | smell: 5 | taste: 5 | feel: 4.75 | overall: 5
Dark, cloudy, unfiltered appearance. Orange-brown in color. Wonderful sweet smell. Delicious full citrus, spicy flavor. Minimal carbonation, fairly flat. Full bodied feel in the month; fairly heavy. Great flavor. Delicious. I had two glasses when at a restaurant tonight and want more!
★ 285 characters
4.03/5 rDev -0.2%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
a - amber in color (was drinking in a dimly lit bar)
s - Sweet smells of honey
t - sweet up front with a mellow finish. Honey and citrus were the main the flavors which were well balanced with light spices.
m Velvety and creamy.
o - very enjoyable if you like your beers on the sweeter side.
★ 296 characters
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4
a - amber in color (was drinking in a dimly lit bar)
s - Sweet smells of honey
t - sweet up front with a mellow finish. Honey and citrus were the main the flavors which were well balanced with light spices.
m Velvety and creamy.
o - very enjoyable if you like your beers on the sweeter side.
★ 296 characters
4.1/5 rDev +1.5%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 4
A: The beer is very hazy golden yellow in color. It poured with a quarter finger high white head that died down, leaving a patch of bubbles in the center and a thin collar around the edge of the glass
S: Moderate aromas of woody herbs and ginger are present in the nose.
T: The taste mostly follows the smell and also has some added notes of spices and orange peels towards the finish.
M: It feels light- to medium-bodied on the palate and has a moderate amount of carbonation.
O: This beer has an interesting mix of herbs and spices, but these aren't overpowering. It is a nice one to sip and savor.
★ 603 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 3.5 | overall: 4
A: The beer is very hazy golden yellow in color. It poured with a quarter finger high white head that died down, leaving a patch of bubbles in the center and a thin collar around the edge of the glass
S: Moderate aromas of woody herbs and ginger are present in the nose.
T: The taste mostly follows the smell and also has some added notes of spices and orange peels towards the finish.
M: It feels light- to medium-bodied on the palate and has a moderate amount of carbonation.
O: This beer has an interesting mix of herbs and spices, but these aren't overpowering. It is a nice one to sip and savor.
★ 603 characters
3.97/5 rDev -1.7%
look: 3.5 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Beer poured from bottle into a Tulip shaped glass
A - Beer pours with a white, 1/2 finger-sized foam head; body is pumpkin orange in color and appears effervescent; not much lacing; foamy head dissipates rather quickly; lots of visible sediment, which appears to levitate/float in mid-liquid
S - Smells very spicy; coriander; allspice; ginger; subtle hints of cinnamon; some biscuit; sweet malt nose; peanut; perfume; floral
T - Taste is heavy in spices, like coriander, and allspice; some sour lemon taste; sweet brown sugar finish; nutty malt; floral
M - Beer has a nice medium body; slightly effervescent; sweet sugary aftertaste
D - Very good herbed beer; well-brewed; great spice taste (not too overpowering) and very nice malt flavoring; I recommend to anyone who likes light Belgian style or herbed beers
★ 816 characters
look: 3.5 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Beer poured from bottle into a Tulip shaped glass
A - Beer pours with a white, 1/2 finger-sized foam head; body is pumpkin orange in color and appears effervescent; not much lacing; foamy head dissipates rather quickly; lots of visible sediment, which appears to levitate/float in mid-liquid
S - Smells very spicy; coriander; allspice; ginger; subtle hints of cinnamon; some biscuit; sweet malt nose; peanut; perfume; floral
T - Taste is heavy in spices, like coriander, and allspice; some sour lemon taste; sweet brown sugar finish; nutty malt; floral
M - Beer has a nice medium body; slightly effervescent; sweet sugary aftertaste
D - Very good herbed beer; well-brewed; great spice taste (not too overpowering) and very nice malt flavoring; I recommend to anyone who likes light Belgian style or herbed beers
★ 816 characters
2.74/5 rDev -32.2%
look: 3.75 | smell: 2.75 | taste: 2.5 | feel: 3 | overall: 2.75
On draft @ Open Baladin, Rome.
Looks nice in Teku glass.
No identifying smell other than adjunct lager?
The taste has nothing but a bit of honey and faint citric taste.
I had an Open IPA 20minutes ago, that wasnt impressive, and parmesan chips,
maybe my senses are off or the style doesnt suit me, not impressed.
★ 319 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 2.75 | taste: 2.5 | feel: 3 | overall: 2.75
On draft @ Open Baladin, Rome.
Looks nice in Teku glass.
No identifying smell other than adjunct lager?
The taste has nothing but a bit of honey and faint citric taste.
I had an Open IPA 20minutes ago, that wasnt impressive, and parmesan chips,
maybe my senses are off or the style doesnt suit me, not impressed.
★ 319 characters
4.39/5 rDev +8.7%
look: 4.75 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.5
Brought this back from a trip to Rome. I like the design of their bottles and even the fonts in their labels. Waxed bottle, cork held in place without the aid of a cap or cage. That’s a first for me.
Poured this into my Baladin teku. Seemed appropriate enough!
This has a pleasing pumpkin-amber orange tinged glow to it with tight bubbling on the foam. I could wax poetic but the point is it looks fantastic.
I’m struggling to place the aroma. It’s akin to a Belgian-style triple, with a light, floral, fruity ester characteristic. There’s a slight must to it, reminding me of white grapes, with just the faintest whisper of lavender and orange blossom on the margins. Wow. Fantastic, layered and complex.
Each sip lit an explosion of flavor on my palate. I get the same floral-fruity complexity, with a great combination of orange blossom, clover honey, and a touch of ginger spice. There’s an almost-champagne effervescence to it, keeping it light and delicate.
Opens with amber honey, orange sweetness, floral essence, light, delicate and inviting.
Yes, it’s that good!
I am glad I saved this for a special occasion as it deserved my full attention. This review is a little bittersweet, as this is the last of the brews I brought back from my Italy trip. Alas, now all I have left are my memories.
★ 1,320 characters
look: 4.75 | smell: 4.5 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 4.25 | overall: 4.5
Brought this back from a trip to Rome. I like the design of their bottles and even the fonts in their labels. Waxed bottle, cork held in place without the aid of a cap or cage. That’s a first for me.
Poured this into my Baladin teku. Seemed appropriate enough!
This has a pleasing pumpkin-amber orange tinged glow to it with tight bubbling on the foam. I could wax poetic but the point is it looks fantastic.
I’m struggling to place the aroma. It’s akin to a Belgian-style triple, with a light, floral, fruity ester characteristic. There’s a slight must to it, reminding me of white grapes, with just the faintest whisper of lavender and orange blossom on the margins. Wow. Fantastic, layered and complex.
Each sip lit an explosion of flavor on my palate. I get the same floral-fruity complexity, with a great combination of orange blossom, clover honey, and a touch of ginger spice. There’s an almost-champagne effervescence to it, keeping it light and delicate.
Opens with amber honey, orange sweetness, floral essence, light, delicate and inviting.
Yes, it’s that good!
I am glad I saved this for a special occasion as it deserved my full attention. This review is a little bittersweet, as this is the last of the brews I brought back from my Italy trip. Alas, now all I have left are my memories.
★ 1,320 characters
3.73/5 rDev -7.7%
look: 3 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 3.75
Pours amber with a fading white head.
Delicate aroma of doughy wheat, spicy clove notes, spices, soft sweet malt and herbal notes.
Refreshing, easy-drinking flavours. Light malt with doughy notes, sweetbread and ginger.
High carbonation works well.
★ 251 characters
look: 3 | smell: 3.75 | taste: 3.75 | feel: 4 | overall: 3.75
Pours amber with a fading white head.
Delicate aroma of doughy wheat, spicy clove notes, spices, soft sweet malt and herbal notes.
Refreshing, easy-drinking flavours. Light malt with doughy notes, sweetbread and ginger.
High carbonation works well.
★ 251 characters
4.11/5 rDev +1.7%
look: 3.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
Tasted On: 04-26-2013
Freshness: Not indicated
Packaging: 750ml dark green bottle, pry-cap
Glassware: Teku
Purchased: Received in a trade
Pours a semi-clear, light orange colored beer with a warm glow look to it. The small white head fades fast and leaves a still beer with pretty much no head retention or lace. In some ways the looks are a letdown, but then again it gives it a look akin to a wine which matches some of the other aspects.
Aromas have both a fruity and spicy character, with grapes and orange in the fruit category and then ginger and other unknown spices. Also has some musty overtones
The taste has fruitiness to it with a slight sweetness. It reminds me somewhat of a semi-sweet wine. There's also a pretty strong ginger spice profile, plus other spices I can't identify.
The mouthfeel seems under-carbonated, which was also evident in the appearance. Medium-bodied, it finishes fruity and slightly sweet with a lingering spiciness.
Overall I thought this was a pleasant and very easy-drinking beer that featured some unique flavors. Would be a good beer to have with a meal more than one to drink by itself.
Thanks to Cameron (TheBishopco) for this brew!
★ 1,182 characters
look: 3.5 | smell: 4.25 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 4
Tasted On: 04-26-2013
Freshness: Not indicated
Packaging: 750ml dark green bottle, pry-cap
Glassware: Teku
Purchased: Received in a trade
Pours a semi-clear, light orange colored beer with a warm glow look to it. The small white head fades fast and leaves a still beer with pretty much no head retention or lace. In some ways the looks are a letdown, but then again it gives it a look akin to a wine which matches some of the other aspects.
Aromas have both a fruity and spicy character, with grapes and orange in the fruit category and then ginger and other unknown spices. Also has some musty overtones
The taste has fruitiness to it with a slight sweetness. It reminds me somewhat of a semi-sweet wine. There's also a pretty strong ginger spice profile, plus other spices I can't identify.
The mouthfeel seems under-carbonated, which was also evident in the appearance. Medium-bodied, it finishes fruity and slightly sweet with a lingering spiciness.
Overall I thought this was a pleasant and very easy-drinking beer that featured some unique flavors. Would be a good beer to have with a meal more than one to drink by itself.
Thanks to Cameron (TheBishopco) for this brew!
★ 1,182 characters
4.01/5 rDev -0.7%
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
A:Pours a cloudy dark peach/apricot to copper in color with moderate amounts of small black yeast particles in suspension along with light amounts of visible carbonation and some dark orange highlights. The beer has a finger tall off-white head that quickly reduces to a large patch of extremely thin film and a thin ring at the edges of the glass. Light to moderate amounts of lacing are observed.
S: Light to moderate aromas of citrus/orange rind, ginger, and myrrh. Additionally, there are slightly stronger aromas of spicy black pepper and lighter notes of honey. Just a touch of yeast.
T: Upfront there is a light amount of pale malts and Belgian yeast (similar to a Belgian Pale Ale) which is then followed by the interesting herbal/spicy notes. First there is a strong flavor of spicy black pepper and some honey sweetness. That is followed by ginger, citrus/orange rind, and myrrh.
M: Just heavier than light bodied with moderate to heavy amounts of carbonation. Slightly dry in the finish.
O: This is pretty interesting as the beer initially has a smell like a Belgian pale ale that then the spicy notes really come out and take over. The taste is similar to the smell and there is quite a bit of complexity to both. Enjoyable but not sure that I could have more than one of these in a session.
★ 1,307 characters
look: 3.75 | smell: 4 | taste: 4.25 | feel: 3.75 | overall: 3.75
A:Pours a cloudy dark peach/apricot to copper in color with moderate amounts of small black yeast particles in suspension along with light amounts of visible carbonation and some dark orange highlights. The beer has a finger tall off-white head that quickly reduces to a large patch of extremely thin film and a thin ring at the edges of the glass. Light to moderate amounts of lacing are observed.
S: Light to moderate aromas of citrus/orange rind, ginger, and myrrh. Additionally, there are slightly stronger aromas of spicy black pepper and lighter notes of honey. Just a touch of yeast.
T: Upfront there is a light amount of pale malts and Belgian yeast (similar to a Belgian Pale Ale) which is then followed by the interesting herbal/spicy notes. First there is a strong flavor of spicy black pepper and some honey sweetness. That is followed by ginger, citrus/orange rind, and myrrh.
M: Just heavier than light bodied with moderate to heavy amounts of carbonation. Slightly dry in the finish.
O: This is pretty interesting as the beer initially has a smell like a Belgian pale ale that then the spicy notes really come out and take over. The taste is similar to the smell and there is quite a bit of complexity to both. Enjoyable but not sure that I could have more than one of these in a session.
★ 1,307 characters
4/5 rDev -1%
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Had a bottle, wish it was a full 12 oz.
A...Cloudy amber yellow golden orange with a soft glow when the light hits it. Not much of a head with a delicate pour into the glass. Only a thin ring of bubbles holds to the inside of the glass where the carbonation breaks the surface, as some other sporatic bubbles spring to the center surface.
S...I smell fruit followed by Spices. The fruit smell reminds of homemade apple cake. There are a few spice smells at the end of the waft, the only spice I can put a finger on is clove, which is the last thing I smell.
T...A delicious combination of flavors. The smell seems to match the taste. It starts with a lightly sour, but a straight forward apple. This citrus apple subsides to a strongly spiced peppery clove finish. It seems there might be some other spices in there but I taste clove the most, which reminds of the holidays.
M...Smooth light carbonation feel
O...Overall a stand out beer, and a surprise since I've never heard of it. Great melding of flavors with fruit and spice. A great beer to have anytime, but I would especially like on a cold holiday night around a fire with family and friends.
★ 1,159 characters
look: 4 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
Had a bottle, wish it was a full 12 oz.
A...Cloudy amber yellow golden orange with a soft glow when the light hits it. Not much of a head with a delicate pour into the glass. Only a thin ring of bubbles holds to the inside of the glass where the carbonation breaks the surface, as some other sporatic bubbles spring to the center surface.
S...I smell fruit followed by Spices. The fruit smell reminds of homemade apple cake. There are a few spice smells at the end of the waft, the only spice I can put a finger on is clove, which is the last thing I smell.
T...A delicious combination of flavors. The smell seems to match the taste. It starts with a lightly sour, but a straight forward apple. This citrus apple subsides to a strongly spiced peppery clove finish. It seems there might be some other spices in there but I taste clove the most, which reminds of the holidays.
M...Smooth light carbonation feel
O...Overall a stand out beer, and a surprise since I've never heard of it. Great melding of flavors with fruit and spice. A great beer to have anytime, but I would especially like on a cold holiday night around a fire with family and friends.
★ 1,159 characters
3.97/5 rDev -1.7%
look: 3.5 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
BA decided to go down for maintenance while I was writing my review so I will have to make this new one brief.
A: A cloudy amber pour. Medium sized fizzy white head. Fades prety quickly with little head retention. Only slight smudges of lacing remain.
S: Orange marmalade and ginger primarily. Floral.
T: Again, orange marmalade up front with applesauce and ginger. Maybe even a spiced apple cider too? Get honey and a slight crackery malt in the middle. Finishes sweet with a sticky marmalade again and a touch of grass. Lots of spices throughout that I can't identify (what the hell is myrrh?) but it is quite delicious.
M: Medium bodied, sticky sweet.
O: What a unique brew. I can't identify half of the flavors in this one (no idea what myrrh or kamut is) but I can tell you that is has quite a complex variety of well-balanced flavors. And they are all pretty damn good. This is an excellent beer for the style, albeit quite unusual and unique. Not in a bad way either. Not sure I'd pay $20 for this beer on a regular basis but it stands alone in its category. Never had anything even remotely similar to this one.
★ 1,126 characters
look: 3.5 | smell: 4 | taste: 4 | feel: 4 | overall: 4
BA decided to go down for maintenance while I was writing my review so I will have to make this new one brief.
A: A cloudy amber pour. Medium sized fizzy white head. Fades prety quickly with little head retention. Only slight smudges of lacing remain.
S: Orange marmalade and ginger primarily. Floral.
T: Again, orange marmalade up front with applesauce and ginger. Maybe even a spiced apple cider too? Get honey and a slight crackery malt in the middle. Finishes sweet with a sticky marmalade again and a touch of grass. Lots of spices throughout that I can't identify (what the hell is myrrh?) but it is quite delicious.
M: Medium bodied, sticky sweet.
O: What a unique brew. I can't identify half of the flavors in this one (no idea what myrrh or kamut is) but I can tell you that is has quite a complex variety of well-balanced flavors. And they are all pretty damn good. This is an excellent beer for the style, albeit quite unusual and unique. Not in a bad way either. Not sure I'd pay $20 for this beer on a regular basis but it stands alone in its category. Never had anything even remotely similar to this one.
★ 1,126 characters
Baladin Nora from Birrificio Le Baladin
4.04
out of 5
based on 319 ratings.
look: 4.75 | smell: 3.5 | taste: 4.5 | feel: 4.5 | overall: 4.5
Draft at Open Baladin Rome. Beautiful color, no head, lovely, light herbal aroma. Quite a few layers of flavor, a bit sweet and quite herbal on the finish. I think this would be wonderful with food.
★ 198 characters