Beer Review: Barebottle Strawberry Rhubarb Pi Sour Ale
Barebottle is an excellent brewery known for its creative, innovative beer styles. Strawberry Rhubarb Pi Sour Ale is a fantastic example of a well-executed kettle sour that leans heavily on nostalgic dessert flavors.
This beer is a 5.3% ABV kettle sour that perfectly balances tart acidity with sweet, fruity flavors. It’s brewed with real strawberries, rhubarb, and a touch of lactose to give it a creamy, pie-like mouthfeel. This beer is a true testament to the brewers’ skill at Barebottle.
Appearance
Strawberry Rhubarb Pi pours a beautiful, clear, soft rose-pink color. It builds a moderate, fluffy white head that slowly recedes, leaving a thin ring of foam and pleasant lacing down the glass as it’s consumed.
Aroma
The aroma of this sour ale is incredibly inviting and true to its name. Strong notes of fresh strawberries dominate the bouquet, supported by a distinct, sharp tang of rhubarb. A delicate back note of vanilla and a hint of graham cracker or pie crust provide a complex, sweet-scented profile.
Taste
The flavor profile is incredibly well-balanced and refreshing. A satisfying surge of tartness hits you on the first sip, providing that classic sour bite. The fresh strawberry flavors come through clearly, followed by the specific, sharp acidity of the rhubarb. The lactose adds a slight creaminess and body, helping soften the sourness and making it incredibly drinkable. The result is a profile that is tangy, sweet, and crisp.
Mouthfeel
This sour boasts a medium-light body, contributing to its excellent drinkability. It is crisp, refreshing, and highly carbonated, which enhances the fruit and sour notes, making it perfect for a warm day. The finish is dry and clean, leaving a delicate, tart aftertaste that invites another sip.
Barebottle Strawberry Rhubarb Pi Sour Ale is a truly delightful and well-crafted beer. It perfectly captures the essence of a classic strawberry-rhubarb pie in a unique, satisfying liquid form. The balanced sourness and intense fruit flavors make this a great choice for long-time sour beer lovers and a fantastic introduction for those new to the style.