Oak-Aged Rustic Grisette
Haw River Farmhouse Ales

 

Light amber/gold in color, very clean and clear with a white head that fades to a thin ring. Only a little bit of stringy lace hangs on to the glass... Aroma is a very pleasant mix of tart lemony cherries/berries, funky citrus, flowers that have been cooking in the sun, sugar frosted doughnut dough, all clean and fresh. Not to be confused with an overly sweet sugar bomb...this is definitely more smooth and softly sweet. Taste is clean, juicy, fruity, farmy, fun, warm and pleasant. Another good one from Haw River. I'm digging this brewery....

 

Slightly hazy yellow gold with a sticky white layer of soft looking foam on top. Aromas of mellow smoked malt, biscuits, tart apples, grapes, zesty citrus, and earthy funk. Smoke continues into the flavor, but it's very easy going and compliments the malty sweetness. Apple tartness, peppery citrus, flowers, and must. Seems to have a similar tangy/savory quality that the regular version had, but obviously the addition of wild yeast and barrel aging results in something quite different. Some residual sweetness and lingering peppercorn. Fairly light, yet fluffy, drying out some in the finish. Nice...maybe a little too much apple tang right now, but I'll keep my other bottles hidden away for a bit and see what happens.