This beer was part of the haul that I brought back from my most recent trip to Colorado. As it's not normally available in the great state of Alabama, I thought it would be a good beer to help ring in the new year. So here it is, a few days late, my review of superbly balanced yet delightfully complex little brew.
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| Every beer geek knows you take two suitcases when traveling. |
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| Avery Eighteen Anniversary Edition Rye Saison |
Origin: Avery Brewing Company of Boulder, CO.
Style: Rye Saison
Appearance: The beer boasts a moderate amber hue. As with most saisons, it is highly opaque with a pleasant haze that playfully diffuses light.
Aroma: The aroma opens with blast of richly ripened fruit that effortlessly transitions to a waft of vanilla. These opening aromas are underpinned by a spicy sourness.
Taste: The flavor profile begins with a jammy pluminess (not unlike a rich fruity red wine). This is complimented by a pleasing spiciness; filled with a strong note of cloves, with the faint overtone of resiny cardamom. This transitions to the lingering taste of raisins.
Mouthfeel: For a beer of over 8% ABV, this brew is crisp and light. It leaves a lacy head on the glass; a testament to the genius of the brewers at Avery's.
Overall: Many American beer geeks may not enjoy the subtle balance that characterizes this brew (this classic hallmark of many saisons may also explain the general lethargy in the incorporation of this style into the repertoire of American beer lovers). I did enjoy this one. It certainly doesn't hit you in the face like a pint of Great Divide's Espresso Aged Yeti, but that shouldn't detract from your enjoyment of this beer.
Eat good food. Drink good beer. And above all, stay classy!
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