Thursday, May 19, 2011

Birrifico le Baladin - Super Baladin Ale

Purchased From: Harvest Fine Wines & Spirits
Serving Type: 8.45 oz. bottle, poured into a tulip glass

This interesting Italian take on a Belgian strong ale comes in an uniquely-shaped and disappointingly-small 8.45 oz. bottle. The beer pours a fuzzy amber cider with a fine yeast suspension and gently rising carbonation. The head is a fluffy light tan made of fine carbonation bubbles. The retention is solid for the original size, but leaves very little lacing behind. The nose is slightly spicy with a huge white grape juice component. Light candied fruit notes show the beer's significant Belgian influences.

The beer is lightly earthy with a gritty grain texture. It's very sweet up front with apricots and dried fruit essence. The beer is fairly complex and spicy with just a hint of alcohol. The finish is slightly thin, but it delivers a lasting bouquet of mild citrus notes and a considerable winey character. Expensive for sure, but worth a try for this rare import.

Final Verdict: B+

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