Lemongrass Kolsch
Big aLICe Brewing Finger Lakes

 

Pours a clear golden color. A large foam head retains well, yields lots of lacing.

Aromas of lemongrass dominate the nose. Notes of biscuit, cracker, peppery spices, grass and citrus fruit.

Malt backbone is biscuity, sweet and rounded, but with an assertive earthy bitterness. Notes of lemongrass, honey sweet peppery spices, and slightly fruity.

Medium bodied with a smooth mouthfeel. Finish is dry and semi crisp. Carbonation is moderate.

Great interpretation of the style, interesting inclusion of lemongrass, balanced and easy to drink. I would have again.

 

Big Alice is an edgy brewery that I’m a fan of. This whacky version of an unpopular beer style was thoroughly enjoyable. I disagree with other reviews saying it is more of a saison. The creamy mouth feel and smooth body seems true to the kolsch style. Lemongrass and sorachi ace hops overcome the usual sweetness, but I like that. Poured from a 16oz can purchased from their barrel room in Industry City Brooklyn .

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

I enjoyed this beer...but a Kolsch?, gee that's a stretch. Who knows? Maybe there's something about the way it was made that technically qualifies it to be called one, but I don't see it. I agree with the reviewer who said is was closer to a Saison with hops and lemongrass. In any case, it was complex, interesting, and drinkable. I'm a bit of a purist, and this "mashup" was pushing the envelope for me, but it was well-crafted.

Starts with a large 4+ finger head. It condenses quickly leaving behind multiple spots for lace. The liquid is cloudy with a green-hued dirty gold color.

The smell is not as crisp as the German versions. There is a sour smell which is stronger than the mild sweetness present.

The taste replaces the sweet smell with a bitter, black pepper hop. The sourness is milder here--I think it's much closer to a Saison than a Kölsch. The body is the same as is the carbonation. Much longer aftertaste than a typical Kölsch.