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Russian River Salvation #

★★★★☆

Clear but deep in color, Salvation pours with a nearly purple hue and a beautiful fluffy cream that laces in thick rings. Its aroma is very obviously vinous, with the depth of Cabernet and the light sourness of Champagne. Apple cider vinegar appears prominently alongside oak, vanilla and custard, while hints of cinnamon, anise, fig, caramel and Gouda provide ample complexity. The nose is quite light for such a dark looking beer, but decidedly unique. With such a graceful invitation, the flavor is rather shocking, melding dry coffee, smoke and Roquefort. Raisins and Champagne don a subtle sourness to which perfumy herbal connotations are added reminiscent of lavender and rosemary. Texturally, the fine carbonation and smooth mouthfeel fit the vinous character, while a finishing dryness promotes the coffee and oak flavors of the aftertaste. An intriguing effort that seems to close the gap between wine and beer.

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