Beer Review: Great Notion Brewing – Orange Creamsicle Fruit in the Can
The Pour
This beer pours a dense, opaque, and vibrant shade of sunrise orange. It lacks the clarity of a traditional sour, instead looking exactly like a glass of pulpy, freshly squeezed orange juice mixed with a splash of cream. The head is thick and frothy but recedes quickly, leaving behind a heavy coating of fruit sediment on the glass.
The Aroma
The nose is an immediate nostalgia trip. It hits with a massive wave of sweet, artificial vanilla and zesty citrus. It smells less like a fermented beverage and more like the liquid version of the classic frozen treat. You get notes of orange zest, marshmallow fluff, and a hint of lactic tang that keeps the sweetness from feeling one-dimensional.
The Flavor Profile
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- Initial Taste: A bright, acidic pop of blood orange and tangerine. The “Tart” in the name is accurate, providing a sharp citrus bite that wakes up the palate.
- Mid-Palate: The “Smoothie” element takes over. The mouthfeel is incredibly thick and velvety, likely due to a heavy hand of milk sugar (lactose) and vanilla. It coats the tongue with a silky, creamy sweetness.
- The Finish: It rounds out with a lingering Creamsicle flavor. The acidity fades into a soft, dessert-like finish that masks the alcohol content almost entirely.
Mouthfeel and Drinkability
This is a “heavy” beer. Its texture is viscous and substantial, making it feel more like a culinary experience than a standard pint. While the tartness provides some balance, the sheer amount of fruit puree and sweetness makes this a slow-sipper or a dessert replacement rather than a sessionable option.
Great Notion continues to lead the “pastry sour” category with this release. It is a bold, unapologetic fruit bomb that delivers exactly what the label promises. If you enjoy thick, smoothie-style sours that lean heavily into sweet, nostalgic flavors, this is a masterclass in the genre. However, those looking for a traditional, crisp wild ale might find the texture and sweetness overwhelming.
Final Thought: It is liquid nostalgia in a can, perfect for a sunny afternoon or as a final pour of the evening.