Anniversary Ale
Carolina Brewery

I visited the Carolina Brewery this week with the sole intention of trying their 2007 Anniversary Ale, which was to be tapped on February 5, 2007. I didn't know what to expect, as I've only visited this brewpub once, and that was over a year ago. I had lunch, did a crossword and Sudoku, and sipped this beer slowly for about an hour.

When I inquired of the waiter what style the beer represents, he stated that it was "Belgian." Well, this naturally piqued my interest, as Belgian Ales are among my favorites. Imagine my surprise when he went on to say that it was like a Blue Moon, but spiced a little different. Even though I'm not a fan of that beer, I ordered it anyway, thinking it might be a nice change of pace.

It was served in a pint glass. The color was golden-orange and quite cloudy in appearance. Almost no head remained when it arrived at the table. I raised the glass up to my face, twirled the glass to coax some bubbles from the bottom, and took a strong whiff. The aroma was quite nice, but not very strong. It was mainly of orange and coriander. It was then I remembered the waiter said it would be served with a slice of orange. It wasn't. (Thankfully?)

I recall the flavor as being, as the waiter said, very similar to Blue Moon. However, the spices were definitely more pronounced. The citrus, particularly orange, and coriander were very noticable. The finish was slightly bitter and lingered in a pleasing manner.

This beer has a high carbonation that caused me to feel constantly full while imbibing it. Oh, and I felt the urge to burp a lot!

I don't usually go for Witbiers in February, but it was a sunny day in Chapel Hill and it was a limited brew for their 10 year anniversary. What a surprise - I agree that this beer was most similar to the Allagash White (or a Franziskaner) - light pepper, orange zest, slight hop overtones. Very nicely done and should be added under another name for their normal offerings (instead of waiting for the 15 year anniversary). Very drinkable, not filtered - quite a deal for the micros around here.

On-tap at the Carolina Brewery. Clear pale orange in appearance. A sliver of white lace sits atop the beer. Aromas are yummy. All sorts of wheaty and orange rind scents come out of the glass. Flavor follows the aroma, with a nicely-flavored profile. The wheaty and orange flavors really shine. It kinda reminded me of a muted Allagash white with the spicy notes. Good mouthfeel and drinkability. A solid offering from the Carolina Brewery.