Stillwater / Mikkeller Two Gypsies - Our Side
Appearance: Pours a pale golden hue with an abundance of carbonation. A vastly large, soapy white head exploded to the rim of my glass after barely pouring a few ounces. Waited a bit for the head to dissipate while watching the swarm of bubbles aggressively shoot to the top. A foamy lacing was left behind as the head receded. Smell: Dry woody tones blend with brisk earthy grasses, sour white grapes, and a bit of funky farmhouse yeast. Rounds out with tart apples, pears, and a buried crisp, dry hop aroma. Taste: Tart citrus characters meld with a dry grassy body, fresh woodiness, atop a yeasty barnyard funk. Finishes crisp with a little apple and bittering hop element that lingers in the mouth. Mild spices, heat and alcohol is detectable as well. Mouthfeel: Crisp, lingering bitterness, pretty decent body for the style, and an almost juicy earthiness. Clean. The dry hopping seems to really balance the yeast and counter the funkiness with some wood, plant-like flavors, and bittering characteristics. Citrus elements were complex- ranging from tangerine to apple, and detectable spiced grasses added texture. A bit high on the carbonation while still being crisp, drinking more like a chardonnay. My bottle had some age, leaving a bit more to desire in strength from the hops. Overall, I like this one.