Face Smack - Cabernet Barrel-Aged
Noon Whistle Brewing Co.

 

 

Picked this 750mL bottle up from the brewery since my wife is a big fan of Berline Weissbiers (interesting choice for someone who isn't necessarily into beer!). Split this with my wife in Hef glasses. The beer pours a hazy/lightly cloudy bright golden color with a white head that is 2 fingers high after a moderate pour. The head dissipates very quickly to an ultra thin lacing that is almost non-existent. 4/5 The typical tartness of Berliner is present on the nose but there is also a nice smooth Carbernet wine grape aroma along with a bit of char, tobacco, tar (these last 4 notes being from the wine barrels). 4/5 Lemony tartness and just a hint of sourdough bread right of the bat on the palate quickly gives way to a smooth oaky flavor along with the Cabernet wine grapes. Just a light hint of char and tobacco comes through from the wine barrels with an herbal hops note just peeking through on the back end before disappearing, leaving just the lemony tartness to linger on the palate after swallowing. 4/5 The mouthfeel is light and crisp with just a hint of carbonation tickle up front. There is only a slight drying that creeps in on the back half and lingers upon swallowing for just a minute or so. 4.25/5 The typical tartness and sourness of a Berliner is really smoothed out due to the Cabernet barrel aging which suits my taste better than the straight up Face Smack. 4/5