Better Believe
Barrel Culture Brewing and Blending

Thick, dense and creamy, with a pastel yellow head that holds two inches for a while. The beer has a mango, golden orange color and is hazy with yellowish-orange highlights. A thick coating of fluffy lace covers the walls of a Strangebird IIPA glass. One half inch of pillowy head slides down right to the last sip.

The aroma is filled with a ton of fresh, ripe melon. Honeydew and cantaloupe are followed by a brief waft of pine and fresh orange pulp. These aromas vacillate in waves. Sweet juiciness is interrupted by late astringency, unfortunately.

While it is more bitter than expected, it has a soft edge against the sweetness and mild tartness. There is more grapefruit than melon, though nothing is overpowering. Pine brightens the flavor and helps maintain the freshness. The finish is bold, with citrus and pine providing a long, bitter sensation.

The body is full with a smooth, creamy texture and light, prickly carbonation. The alcohol is shockingly lower than expected, though certainly present. I genuinely was shocked when I read 11% on the label.

This is another beer enjoyed on a cold, snowy afternoon. Better Believe is sunshine in a glass without any warming nature. THINK FRESH, mouthwatering juice. As the Monkees said, "I'm a believer."