West Sixth Brewing Sixfold VI: Blackberries

“Hints of apple peel and blackberry vodka in the aroma. Pie comes through nicely in the flavor. Balance is more toward the sour and tart, but it still works.”

Rich fruit character, though not distinctly cherry; also Brett, wood, and earth. Lack of head suggests wine. Oak character adds pleasant light spiciness, with fruit fermentation esters; tart, with berry notes. Subtle yet complex.

**Aroma:** “Very fruity, with notes of cherry, raspberry, and blackberry, tied up with a grapefruit hops aroma. The fruitiness seems more like a flavored tea, and the color is beautiful. A sweet note of Jolly Roger candy, floral qualities, and a dank, earthy background.” **Flavor:** “The resinous hops dominate the first impression, letting the berry come through in the swallow. The blackberry flavors integrate well with the citrusy hops notes, coming through as jammy. Combined with the bready and cracker malt, it’s like berry jam spread on a biscuit. Finishes dry, with berry on the aftertaste.” **Overall:** “The blackberries aren’t the focal point of this beer, but the brewer made the beer better with their presence. The malt, the hops, and the berries add a layer of complexity that is not often seen in most fruited IPAs. Without the fruit, the beer wouldn’t likely be as good as it is.”