I picked up this beer at The Bier Stein in Eugene. Jolly Pumpkin focuses on Belgian Style ales, and has been popping up more in my reading of American-made Belgian style ales. This is the first tasting of a Jolly Pumpkin beer on Brewerman, but the second one that I’ve had. I recall really enjoying the Oro de Calabaza as the first example of their product. Given the way this one went, I wish that I could more easily get their stuff here in Bend.
Appearance: White head of big bubbles sitting on top of a clear, straw colored beer. Big carbonation.
Smell: Smells like a Wit! Spice and wheat and yeast and subtle floral notes
Taste: Tartness and yeast play off the wheat carbonation and just barely-sweet base. The spice hits right at the beginning of the taste and slowly bleeds into the tartness that lingers after the swallow. There’s a slight bitterness, and the footprint left after the swallow is light. Green apple and pear flavors are present. A bit more tart than I’m used to with Wits, but very easy to enjoy.
Mouthfeel: Lively carbonation, Light on the tongue.
Drinkability: I liked it. At 4.8% ABV, this is a very refreshing beer that can easily be downed by a single person (at least it was easy for me 🙂 ). I wish that I could more-easily get my hands on more of Jolly Pumpkin’s beers. Very tasty.
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