North Coast Tart Cherry Berliner Weisse

Product description: Michael Jackson describes “Berlin White Beer” as having an “insistent sparkle, a fragrant fruitiness in the nose, a sharp, dry palate, and a frisson of quenching, sour acidity in the finish.” North Coast Tart Cherry Berliner Weisse is made with the juice of Michigan Montmorency cherries, whose addition softens the lactic finish of the beer and gives it a springtime blush. This very limited release is available 22 oz bottles as well as in 1/6 barrel kegs.

North Coast Brewing – North Coast Tart Cherry Berliner Weisse – 22 oz. bottle poured into a tulip. – 4.1% abv.

I spotted this bottle at my local shop. It was quite conspicuous as a clear 22oz bomber with bright pink beer inside. It certainly stands out amongst the crowd. Vibrant rose wine in color with powerful pink foam – this is immediately impressive in the glass.

In true Berliner fashion, the soda-like foam is short lived. The aroma is spot-on for the style with moist sourdough bread, strong yeast presence, and slightly sweaty and funky from the lactobacillus character. Fruit addition is mild in the nose.

The flavor is nicely lactic up front with lower, approachable acidity. Fresh fruitiness comes through mid-palate with real cherry juice character – nothing like maraschino cherry, grenadine, or cherry flavoring. The backend is thick with lactic acid piling on, fresh bread, and mild saltiness. Overall, this is bright, lightly-acidic, and super refreshing. The cherry character is well-integrated and doesn’t overpower. This is an exceptionally well-done, terrific beer!

I passed this glass around to a larger group of friends, and some of the ardent “I don’t drink beer” crew found this to be “acceptable.” One even said, “I would maybe drink that.” Success!