Alani The Lighthearted

Alani The Lighthearted by Reformation Brewery is a self-described Rose Ale with grape must, cranberry and hibiscus (judged as a Fruit Beer – BJCP sub-style 29A). In the glass it poured clear and deep reddish-orange with only a faint head that dissipated rather quickly. The aroma included dominant grape must notes and lesser cranberry and floral (hibiscus) ones, and a faint sourness. Lacking any description of a base ale style, the appearance and aroma alone gave few clues about the underlying character of this mysterious brew.

The flavor profile was also somewhat elusive, featuring no prominent malt or hop flavors, just a well-blended fruity mash-up of the grape and cranberry, with some bitter notes presumably from the hibiscus and (only) bittering hops playing a supporting role. As such it emerged as a type of fruit-forward hybrid ale. The mouthfeel featured a light body, low carbonation, no creaminess or alcohol warmth. This is a mostly pleasant and uncomplicated fermented fruit beverage, but one that lacks any substance or particularly noteworthy characteristics to recommend it. Refreshing and drinkable primarily to adventuresome beer enthusiasts up for trying something “new and completely different.”