effervescent refractions

Despite being hidden in my dark closet Southampton’s Grand Cru traveled a roller coaster of expectations, varying from utter excitement to a worrisome prospect, affected by praising and terrifying reviews alike, shifting to new brewing grounds and methods - I was simply confused. It was concluded that the brew I drank was the most recent iteration, produced at Sly Fox.

As light shines through its apricot hue a bucolic mist develops under fluffy off-white clouds. The scene reminds of my summer travels through Flanders, a mellow glow flooding the horizon. The aroma immediately strikes as eminently Belgian, in fact I dare say I’ve never experienced such a cogent imitation from American brewers. Its a delicate combination of sweet and spicy, rich and buttery; complex fragrances and flavors that compose a true symphony. Esters are accentuated in Southampton’s interpretation, showing plenty of Bazooka Joe, banana, pineapple but also buttery wheat, yogurt, brown sugar and light caramel malts. Sweet clementine and apricot, a hint of tulip and vanilla, coriander and nutmeg, every nuance adds to the unity of this wonderful nose. Like a post-impressionist painting the flavor surprises with dabs of unexpected color, bursting initially with a creamy orange peel only to flow directly into a more vivacious nutmeg and cinnamon tone. The palate continues to evolve developing buttery caramel before it collapses onto lasting anise and gin. This ale speaks for itself, and with brio I might add.