Plava
Alus Darbnīca Labietis

Copenhagen 1/8 2022. 50 cl bottle from BulgarskMad, Åboulevarden, Kbh. N. Simple red label in Labietis’ usual design with the bearded fellow in the logo and a signature from the brewer.

Extremely foamy and gushing upon opening making puddles all over the place. Pours opaque hazy yellow with a huge white and stable head. Clumps of yeast whirling about. Settles with a crown of fluffy foam. Massive lacing.

Aroma is medium intense with a sweet a bit candy-like odor mingling with floral and tart notes. Lollipops and gum. Pale malts. Citrus and sour unripe berries.

Medium strong carbonation. Slightly thick, oily, soft, lightly tingling texture.

Flavor is medium intense with a medium strong sweetness followed by a slightly more moderate sourish bitterness. Aftertaste is lightly tart with a notable sweet undertone. Lingers for a bit. Semi-dry finish.

Fruity and tart in flavor with a touch of candy-store. Not bad. But I would prefer not too have it all over my kitchen.

Pours a deep, golden amber coloration with a small, fluffy head. Smells of doughy malt and strong notes of the herbal additions, with subtle hints of citrus hops coming through as well. Taste is a great balance of doughy malt, fruity hops, with hints of tangerine, and strong herbal additions of meadowsweet and yarrow, carrying notes of mint, anise, honey and vanilla. Finishes with a medium bitterness and hints of anise and vanilla lingering in the aftertaste. Smooth mouthfeel with a medium body and carbonation.

While this probably isn't for everyone, I quite enjoyed it personally, but I do very much enjoy Herb and Spice Beers in general. The meadowsweet and yarrow come through distinctly here without feeling overpowering, even leaving some room for the citrus hops. Overall, this makes for a well-balanced and flavorful beer with a unique flavor profile.