We spoke with Wild Heaven Beer Head Beer Brewer Josh Franks about Neon Roses.
BC: Who came up with this beer's recipe?
I wrote the recipe for this beer. I went with a nice blend of red and white wheat to showcase the nutty and bready qualities of each. I also had to decide how much mint was needed to be as forward as it is in a mint julep but also stay balanced with the rest of the flavors.
BC: What's your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, etc.)?
My favorite aspect of this beer is the balance of the various components. The mint certainly shines through in the nose, but once you taste it, the vanilla and oaky bourbon character pops out. It really does taste like a mint julep.
BC: Where does this beer's name come from?
The Wild Heaven team was incredibly fortunate to visit the Bulleit Distillery in Kentucky in 2022, and with that came a much deeper learning of the history of the Bulleit brand. Coming off that trip, we had so many exciting ideas to continue exploring together and many inside jokes. I was inspired by the themes of the Bulleit Neon installation that we saw photos of (currently on display at LA's Grand Central Market). Neon, whiskey and beer all have a combination of science and craftsmanship in common. The uncommon style of a Wheat Wine is perfectly aged in Bulleit's 10-year-old barrels with the subtle addition of mint, a nod to the official drink of the Kentucky Derby: the mint julep. Add in another very prominent symbol of the Derby, the rose, and there you have it: Neon Roses.
BC: Is this your "desert island beer?"
While I am a big fan of this beer, I wouldn't call it my desert island beer. For that, I would want my favorite creation, our Euro Style Pilsner.
BC: Can you describe this beer in 10 words or less?
Built like a beer, tastes like a cocktail.
BC: Do you know a story – or have a personal story – that revolves around this beer?
A personal story for our Neon Roses would have to be drinking it while watching the Kentucky Derby. I was at a friend's house on Derby Day, but I wanted to save the beer for when the Derby was taking place. As the time drew near, we cracked a couple of cans and distributed pours for those watching. Watching the evolution of people's faces as they experience the beer is fascinating. The first smell, full of spearmint, is not subtle, and people are unsure what to expect. But as they take that first sip, you can see them experience all of the other flavors besides just the mint. It got an outstanding response.
BC: What's a good food pairing for this beer?
I have always struggled with food pairings. But I can say that this beer went very well with pimento cheese and carnitas tacos!
