Kannah Creek Hop Citrus Zest Sour
What the brewers say
“Hops-forward American session sour ale with tangelo zest. Pairs well with seasoned sour drinkers or those new to the style.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “The initial impression is of hops aromas, which are unexpected in this style—spicy, with a hint of wood, resiny tobacco, and dank juniper. Sweet malt notes up front, with hints of biscuit and toast followed by lemon zest and lemon juice from the acidity. Some raw wort, creating the expectation of something like an under-attenuated pale ale.”
Flavor: “Assertive lemony tartness with a candied lemon character that comes through like a Lemon Warhead. Moderate malty-sweet backbone that’s funky and bready. Some sour citrusy hops flavors with moderate bitterness that are sideswiped by a sour tang, and stay through the finish. The initial malt sweetness fades to a nice, dry finish.”
Overall: “This is an interesting example that’s very reminiscent of Lemon Warheads, thanks to the candied lemon character and assertive acidity. Maybe a touch too much malt and body for the style, but it keeps the beer from becoming too acidic and keeps it drinkable.”
