Allagash Interlude

Sour beer for the win! I ordered this lovely concoction at Haven Gastropub in Orange, CA, thinking it was just a strong Belgian ale. My immediate reaction was that it smelled like a sour - sort of cidery with notes of medium bodied red wine. Turns out it is a lambic (sour). I guess I can trust my olifactory senses.

There is an element of sweetness such as guava or some other tropical fruit I cannot put my finger on. The hint of sweetness compliments the frontal bitterness of the beer, comparable to ruby red grapefruit. It also possesses a tart apple quality, like a dry granny smith and reiner cherries. There is a pleasant acidity to the beer, and it is well carbonated (naturally because of the yeast). It is not too sour, in fact, the scent gave it away more than anything. 

A wonderful introductory sour! Pair it with stronger flavors, such as bold cheeses or possibly BBQ tempeh (or ribs, etc. if you eat meat) and rosemary mashed potatoes.

10/10