The Bruery/Dogfish Head Faster, Bigger, Better, Bolder

From The Bruery – Two of the most out-of-the-box breweries around, The Bruery and Dogfish Head recently combined forces on a brew; the result is as intriguing as one might expect. Inspired by the strength of the Japanese people to remain sturdy during the recent earthquake that hit their small island nation, the beer’s depth of flavor comes from flavors steeped in tradition. The ale is brewed with a spin on the traditional shichimi togarashi, or Japanese seven spice blend. Ginger, cayenne, white sesame seeds, black sesame seeds, poppy seeds, and nori were added to a base blonde ale that was created using two kinds of rice. Replacing the typical orange peel included in shichimi, whole kumquats were pulverized and added to the whirlpool, giving the spiced beer a kick of fresh citrus. A blend of sake yeast and The Bruery’s house yeast was used to ferment this beer into a dry and complex ale, different than anything you’ve likely had before. One dollar from every bottle sold will be going to help the brewers and beer drinkers of Japan in need of our support to fight back from disaster.

The Bruery – The Bruery/Dogfish Head Faster, Bigger, Better, Bolder (Gradually, Quietly, Steadily) – 750 ml. bottle poured into a goblet. 8.25% abv.

Appearance: Pours a cloudy pastel yellow with a big sudsy head.

Aroma:  That Bruery house yeast. For those not familiar a little funky, a touch sour, cologne. Husky grain, spice.

Taste:  Dry spicy Belgian yeast. Pale dry malt. Fruity floral kumquat.

Mouthfeel: Lively, high carbonation.

Overall:  An amazing dry saison like golden ale. The touch of fruit takes it to the next level, and doesn’t make the beer “fruity.” Many had a chip on their shoulder due to this beer potentially being “over gimmicked”, including myself. After the first sip, I knew this was the real deal.