effervescent refractions

Second in our Jolly Pumpkin diptych, I was surprised to find a striking similarity between La Roja and Bière de Mars. Suggesting the weathered planks of a ship, the body glows of a deep orange under a brumous cream-colored head. The nose is what veritably likens the two beers. The matching funkiness implies a strong influence from the barrels that may be masking their individuality. Still, I found the Bière de Mars less tight, showing more banana and green apple, as well as nutmeg, allspice and brown sugar. The mouthfeel is dry and aggressively carbonated, which sadly erodes some of the flavor. Red apple, blueberries and a leathery sourness are welcome tonalities, however. I preferred La Roja for its kinder texture and affable mascot.