Wild River
Woodland Empire Ale Craft

 

woodland used to be among the best in town, now they are an almost afterthought for me most of the time, too many others have stepped way up, our new breweries have been mostly great, and we have way more cool beer in distribution in boise than we did a handful of years ago, not to mention all the changes here, their now lack of independence, and the revolving door on the production side, been hard to really be loyal to them in any meaningful way. this citrus wheat is fine by most standards, but its not the kind of beer that made me love these guys, and it could come from just about anywhere, a little orange character to it gives it brightness, the wheat is fresh and fuller in terms of body but not so much that it isnt refreshing, and the balance between the two is excellent, this is simple and drinkable, summery without forcing it, and the objective quality is entirely adequate, but it doesnt feel inspired, which is how they all used to feel to me. not trying to get too deep, this isnt the maury show, its a beer website, but suffice it to say not all changes here have been good, and this is a fine if soulless summer drinker. a few things work in its favor, the real light color and relative dryness for it having fruit in it is cool, it doesnt get bogged down where many do. another thing i like about is the citrus itself, seems pure and honest, high end, and not overdosed, even brings a little acidity and bitterness which i like. the hops are subtle but well selected for this which is nice too. this plays in a samey space a bit, but its a pleasant enough glass of beer this time of year, and i think they got the hard parts right, perhaps slightly more hops to this than most of its peers, which works. i need to hit up the taproom again and see whats really shaking, its been ages since i have...

12oz can. Bottom date stamp reads '09/19/2023'.
Cloudy, pale gold colored body. One finger of white, fine bubble head. No lacing.
Aroma of earthy grains and some light citrus.
Taste is wheat malt and citrus, both which produce a tangy sensation. Citrus is mostly orange but some recognizable grapefruit. Quick fade in the aftertaste.
Medium mouth feel. Clean finish. Good carbonation.
Clean and crisp, and easy drinking for thirst quenching.

Short pour at Woodland Empire. Hazy yellow pour, small white foamy head. Aroma is bready with notes of tangerine. Taste is bready, mealy and tangerine peel.