Rose Tattoo
Mickey Finn's Brewery

 

 

 

Served in a flute glass at the brewpub.

I felt kinda funny when they brought me this tiny little champagne flute... Anyway, this stuff pours a clear ruby-rose topped by a half-finger at best of light cream foam. The nose comprises sweetly tart raspberry, light red apple skin, light Brett-like funk, and a touch of white wine (something akin to pinot grigio). The taste brings in more of the same, along with some light mandarin orange, light sour apple, and a touch of grapefruit rind. Things come across as muddled, as though they couldn't decide whether to make this beer a real fruit beer, a sour (read: lambic-like) fruit beer, a Brett-ed beer, or something in-between. The body is a light medium, with a moderate carbonation and a decidedly dry finish. Overall, a decent brew, but one that misses the mark due to its indecision and schizophrenia. I'm conflicted over whether or not I'd order another at this point...

Aged for 3 years in a barrel with raspberries.

Poured into a tulip glass from the growler, it had a murky, ruddy brown color with some dirty reddish-orange highlights. Thin froth of foam parts on the surface, leaving behind some spotty lacing around the edges.

Complex aroma of apple butter, crabapples, acetic acid, light sharpness but not overpowering. Flavors are similar, tart fruit, balsamic notes, apple cider vinegar, with a light sweetness upfront that segues into a tart savory middle. Medium carbonation and heft to it, pleasant and very drinkable. Raspberries were likely fully dissolved after 3 yrs., and they don't come across any more than indistinct berries, but there are seedy tannins present.

Seems a bit like a Flanders, but too indistinct to categorize as such (and not completely necessary). A great first (?) effort at a sour ale from Mickey Finn's, great to see them take a lead in this direction, though they've always shown a creative side to brewing.

Thanks very much to Amanda & Justin for sharing this!