Ramstein Winter Wheat
I don't want to demean the beer by labeling its appearance "cola-like" but this is a case where that really would be the best way to describe it. It has a deep russet colour with a dark crimson hue and glints of cherry. Its head is a crackling collection of tiny, prickling bubbles, of which most of the original patch quickly sizzled out. Unavailingly, a steady stream of carbonation tries to ensure constant resurfacing. The aroma places itself somewhere between candy coated cough drops and vintage sherry. Quite a contrast, I know, but its ultra complex. Finely matured notes of long-ago fermented fruits are dusted over with a sugary sweet glaze. It can border medicinal - and certainly always potent - but it packs the nostrils so full of fruity esters and spicy phenols that it distinguishes itself foremost as one thing: deliciously appetizing. I failed to mention all the banana, weak coffee and dark chocolate truffles I noted - good thing they're even more present in taste! These flavours (especially the banana) exist alongside damp, grainy whole wheat breads and earthy, over-ripened stone fruits. Being more specific: I taste plums, apricot, dried cherry, figs, dates, raisins - wow, this is insanely fruity in a very dark, rich, complex way; its resemblance to sherry can be uncanny at times. Mostly because it offers a strong, complex, and quite dry persona. The most significant departure from fortified wine, of course, is the 4th of July like fireworks like display of fiery, spicy phenols. This is rampant with clove-like taste that leaves the tongue inundated with a peppery fragrance. Luckily, syrupy sweet caramelized malts and crisp, farm fresh wheat keep that spice well in check. Despite all the beer's strong qualities (of which it has many) none of them ever become overwhelming. I haven't yet had anything else from High Point Wheat Beer Co. but I'm willing to believe they really know what they're doing. To brew a beer this strong and mighty and not compromise on any character and still have it come out eerily sessionable - that's the sign of a talented brewer. It's also a sign I should seek out more his brews!