Brett'd Ale Aged in Pinot Noir Barrels
West Sixth Brewing Company

 

Leaving well enough alone is not the brewer's strong suit. Once they have their grasps on something, the wheels get spinning. How to tinker with it; how to add complexity, interest, intrigue; how to challenge what beer can be. And that "How can I" spirit is alive in West Sixth's sour ale program.

Aged in Pinot Noir barrels, their Brett'd golden ale takes on a radical transformation that begins with its bright rosy, blush hue. Rounded with a loose and frothy cap, the ale invites the nose with promises of red wine, cellar funk, a floral tropical, citrusy, cider medley and a peppery twinge of oak. Drawing the first sip and those tart rouge wine flavors come calling, on the foundation of light taffy malts and a hint of sourdough.

As the ale unfolds on the middle palate, its wine-like tendencies only fortify. Seeming sangria-like, the fruit medley of red grape, currant, blueberry, plum and pineapple all align on the tongue, sharing a strong fruitiness while thwarting any unwanted sweetness. Tart, succinct and refreshing, the beer's late palate turns pleasantly oaken, piquant with vinous alcohol and as refreshing as wine spritzers.

Its light hop profile only works to emphasize dryness and refreshment as a its peppery alcohol links up with elements of wood, resins and fine hay-like attributes in the waning seconds. A brief aftertaste of wine tannins and a bitterness of lemongrass extends slightly beyond the fruit.