First off, I'd like to say thanks to Brazen Hall for being awesome hosts to myself and my buddy Darren a few weeks back, it was really appreciated and as always, a great time! Especially shout outs to Erin and Evan for being so welcoming! I've known both of them since they were both over at Fort Garry, they're insanely passionate about what they do and only want to promote the best beer out there, I love their passion!Today's sampling is Brazen Brewing's Ravens Reign Cranberry Witbier. If somehow you've been following my beer journey for a long time, you'll know that it was a Witbier that turned me into a beer geek way back twenty or more years ago, they're such an approachable style of beer that appeals to both craft beer geeks and the casual beer drinkers out there.
From the can: In Norse lore, ravens are messengers of fate, circling above warriors and whispering secrets of victory and doom. Ravens Reign carries that spirit in every sip. Tart cranberry for blood and vitality, juniper for the wild, coriander for spice, and orange peel for a flash of light. Red, crisp and unyielding. This is where flavour takes flight. 4.8% ABV
Appearance: First off, I love the artwork on the label, gives off a bit of spooky, almost Halloween vibes to it. The beer itself pours a clear reddish cherry body with a very thick amount of white head that has a hint of pinkness to it. The head diminishes over time leaving behind a lacing on the glass but there's still a decent amount of foam on top of the beer as it's (quickly) getting savoured.
Aroma: Moderately tart with the cranberries, a hint of Belgian yeastiness tickling the nostrils, and lastly a moderate amount of coriander spiciness to it - I'm not a big fan of coriander anymore but this is the right amount for this beer.
Taste: The first thing I get is that this is a fairly dry ale. I was expecting it to be quite sweet for some reason but it's not really - it's mostly got a moderately tart finish from the cranberries which also leaves a bit of a tart aftertaste as well as a bit of a tingling on the tongue (slightly acidic). The coriander is moderately spiced and it's present in pretty much every sip. Lastly, there's a slight floral/bitter aftertaste from the hops at the end.
Overall Thoughts: Thanks Erin and Evan for sending this my way! I already told Evan what my thoughts were - it was very clear for a Belgian Witbier but I've seen many similar style beers that had just as much clarity so it's all good. Moderately tart and works well for the warm autumn we're having here in Manitoba at the moment. My only critique is that I was expecting it to be a tad sweeter but then again, cranberries aren't exactly that sweet either.. so it's just me!
If you're ever at Brazen Hall for a bite to eat, I'd recommend pairing this with their Wisconsin-style Butter Burger and fries.. so good!
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