The Rare Barrel The Search

Aroma: “Loads of fresh, ripe peach and peach skin. Funky, slightly musty cellar notes give it interesting complexity. There are a slight floral hops note and some herbal notes (basil and thyme), all rounded with a little Brettanomyces. Flavor: “Quite lactic and peachy. Juicy, almost citrus. Slightly astringent peach skin. Minimal Brett character. Fairly sour, moderately tart. Finish is a bit mouth-coating. The herbal note of more basil with a hint of soy and it’s a little yeasty, but that helps soften the palate. Nice blend of wood, fruit, funk, and tart. Everything is in balance.” Overall: “Well-balanced among fruit, sourness, malt profile, wild character, and a light touch of wood with just enough complexity. Juicy, sour peachiness—it’s exceptional.”

Aroma is nice with a fair amount of Lactobacillus coming through and a hint of peaches. A touch of Brett funk. A nice honey character. All in all, an exquisitely good fruited American sour.

Aroma: “Frozen lemonade with a hint of pineapple and orange. Clean, lemon, Lacto. Brief whiff of sulfur that blows off and opens up into an earthy lemon mint or lemongrass note. As it sits, that lemon note morphs into a bit of stale locker-room funk.” Flavor: “The flavor mirrors the aroma. Creamy lemon candy with a distinct tartness that accentuates the lemon for a mildly puckering effect. Finishes dry despite the perceived sweetness up front. Tartness lingers on the tongue as the flavors fade.” Overall: “Enjoyable initially, but drink quickly as it starts stronger than it finishes. Refreshingly clean and bright on first sip, but takes on a Dr. Jekyll and Mr. Hyde–like transformation as it warms.”