Oak Barrel Aged Flanders Red Ale

Oak Barrel Aged Flanders Red Ale by Moody Tongue Brewing Co. was judged as a Flanders Red Ale (23B). Notes of acetic acid linger on a bed of cherry fruit with hints of wood and leather. The acidity is restrained, but unmistakable. The color is a dark copper-garnet, very clear with just a faint head on the glass’s edge that is off-white. The flavor is acidic and fruity expressing both good development of the wild yeast character and a rich pie-cherry fruit. The malt is not overworked, and a good malt sweetness balances the acidity nicely. I would characterize the malt and acidity as being very much complimentary. The body is medium with acidity and carbonation adding a bite in the finish that makes the overall mouthfeel sharp as it passes over the palate. There is a touch of warmth from alcohol in the finish as well. Overall, this is an exceptional Flanders Red Ale that manages to be sour, but not overly sour; malty enough to lend balance and sweetness to the tartness of the ferment; and fruity enough, with just a touch of wood character, to lend complexity and nuance to this wonderful beer. I would highly recommend finding a bottle as this beer expresses the tradition of the Flanders Red as well as any I have had in Belgium or elsewhere.