Cape May Brewing Harvest Ale
What the brewers say
“We devised a killer Saison-styled recipe with wheat and Pilsner in the malt bill and a generous helping of Hallertau Blanc hops. Then, just as fermentation was almost through, we added a bunch of fresh Merlot must from California.”
What our panel thought
Aroma: “Nice saison esters. Spicy and herbal hops, corn tortillas, pepper, peach, bubblegum esters, clove phenols, and white wine. The grape must contribution complements fruity esters.”
Flavor: “Some bready malt character comes through with notes of banana. Grape must character is present but dry in character, and this adds a slight sweetness but not much. Hints of fruit—apple and peach—with a strong fermentation character and lightly tart in finish.”
Overall: “Enjoyable, solid saison, and the grape character added some complexity and tannic qualities.”
