Barrel Aged Sahti
Dubina Brewing

 

Poured a clear dark red body with one finger of thick off-white head. Overall impression of appearance is on an interesting beer, not quite in the sahti range, but appealing. Scents of moderate wild funk, a bit of banana, vanilla, a bit of fruity esters and a light hint of juniper with grainy malt,, rye, some light caramel and malt. Overall impression of aroma is of a nice malt forward beer, a sahti, but very much a barrel aged one, with an interesting character of malt, juniper and oak barrel adding character and depth. The addition of brett and lacto add an excellent wild character that does not overwhelm, but rather supplements the rustic character of the beer. Very nice. Flavor begins malty and lightly wild, with a very light barnyard brett character and notes of oak and vanilla mingling wonderfully with malt, mostly spicy rye, but light caramel also is present. Middle opens up a bit more bitterness, giving flavors of juniper and juniper berry, toasted malt, rye and oak. Finish is dry with a light lactic and brett character mingling with juniper, juniper berries and rye. Aftertaste is oak and light brett with some toasty malt and rye. Overall impression of flavor is of an interesting twist on a sahti. The juniper is present, as is the rye, the esters are not as present as typical, but the wild, rustic character the barrel and brett and lacto add a depth that is outstanding. Mouthfeel is light bodied with moderate carbonation and a drying feel. Overall impression of mouthfeel is of a good beer, but different from a traditional sahti. Overall this is an excellent beer, and an interesting take on the sahti. Not traditional in many ways, but still excellent, as the barrel aging and wild character truly help the base beer shine. The juniper and rye impart the presence of a sahti and the whole experience is fantastic.