Style: Belgian-style Blonde Ale

ABV: 5.65 IBU: 40.0

91/100
Aroma: 11
Appearance: 3
Flavor: 18
Mouthfeel: 5

Russian River Brewing Company Fonio - Belgian Blonde Ale

What the brewers say

“Saison brewed with 25 percent fonio (ancient African grain).”

What our panel thought

“Classic banana and grainy malt character in the aroma, with a spicy lemon sweetness. Chewy wheatiness in the flavor with banana esters. Generous dose of hops kicks in and leads to a bitter finish.”

What our editors thought

“Soft floral nose with a slightly nutty, toasty malt note and a vague, vinous, sauvignon blanc undercurrent. Light pepper leads the sip but smooths into softer stone fruit and citrus peel as it sits. Refined and reserved despite the characterful flavors.”

Review printed in: Best in Beer 2024 (View All Issues)


REVIEWS FOR YOU >

The Big Friendly Shadows Cast By Tomorrow

“Dried apricot, fresh lemon zest, herbal, white pepper, oak, white grapes on the nose. Light tartness mingles with a wine-like note that slowly melds into a layer of oak. Sweet Nerds candy–like quality in the lasting aftertaste.”

Solemn Oath Brewery Punk Rock For Rich Kids

“Drinks like a classic American pale ale. The hop character lends citrus and piney notes, Fruity Pebbles, and Trix on the nose. Tastes just like it smells with a diesely overtone, resiny grapefruit, and sweet, sticky grain. Restrained bitterness lets the malty caramel notes punch through. Just a hint of Belgian character comes through the flavor profile. Bursting with mysterious fruity flavors and a deep, foresty dankness you want to disappear into.”

Russian River Brewing Co - Santa Rosa Janet's Brown Ale

Smells like a pine forest after a spring rain. Fresh American hops aroma: herbal, floral, fresh, with touches of sweet orange, sandalwood, cherry, peach. Lots of hop flavor, but the bitterness is restrained and balanced. Toasty, smooth, layered malt complexity, light chocolate, low caramel. Somewhat dry. Just enough bitterness to balance. Fresh spruce tips linger. Overall impression of a softer, sweeter IPA. Very pleasant and satisfying.

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