Batch One Anniversary Ale
Refuge Brewery

 

This is "infused with grape must" of both Merlot and Cabernet Franc, for you oenophiles. As that means freshly pressed, there wouldn't be much of any color from the red skins, so maybe that explains the light amber color. Aged in barrels of some kind, which contributes a pleasant vanilla oak note but not any booze or wine flavors.

The flavor is quite apply and quite delicious, though it's a rather simple Tripel. The grapey acidity nicely balances the sugars, though whether they are from the malt or the fruit, I couldn't say. The aroma is a little peculiar at first sniff, but as it warms there is a fermenting pineapple note. Ends with some wood and the dry Belgian yeast flavor.

From the 750 ml capped bottle gooped up with black wax. Purchased for $20 at the brewery in Temecula. Released in December 2013.