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Wild Sour Series: Flanders Red

Illinois
United States
Destihl Brewery Wild Sour Series Flanders Red
Judges Ratings 
1 Review
97
Aroma:
23 / 24
Flavor:
39 / 40
Appearance:
6 / 6
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20
Description 

Flanders Red is an acidic, sour ale with an initial impression of tart cherries and sour candy that dissipates into a complex palate displaying both a sharp lactic sourness with a backbone of caramel and biscuit malt profiles and minimal hop character. The dry, wine-like finish accentuates the complex malt profile and bright fruit notes showcased in this brilliant red colored hybrid of a modern Flanders and German-style sour.

Beverage Profile
ABV: 
6.1%
IBUs: 
15
Judges Review 
Josh Weikert's picture
Judges Rating:
97
Aroma:
23 / 24
Appearance:
6 / 6
Flavor:
39 / 40
Mouthfeel:
10 / 10
Overall Impression:
19 / 20

This is a world-class Flanders Red despite hailing from the American Midwest. Sours can be challenging, and the Flanders Red particularly so given the kind of balance drinkers expect between fruit, acid and malt, but this one nails it. The beer pours a brilliant amber color with a low tan head. The initial aromas are of dark cherry, blackcurrant and a low earthy background funk that accentuates the deep and dark fruit notes.  

That same fruity character carries through to the aroma and pairs beautifully with the medium-high level of sourness. There’s a slightly jammy flavor in the aftertaste after a balanced finish, and a hint of smoke that lingers after all of the other flavors have fallen off. I went right back in for another sip, and once my palate had broken in a bit, it was even better and more complex, and I noticed a fairly delicate mouthfeel and a bit of warming from the alcohols.

The bottom line here is that this is one of the best beers I’ve ever tasted from a commercial brewery. Try one – I feel very confident that you’ll come away impressed.