Purchase
Almanac Sunshine & Opportunity
Sour Ale
- Club:
- $4.79
- Retail
- $5.99
Origin: Alameda, CA
Style: Sour Ale
Hops: Sabro, Citra, Mosaic
Malt: Undisclosed
Profile
Founded in 2011, Almanac Beer Co. is the handiwork of two home-brewers, Damian Fagan and Jesse Friedman. The duo set out to produce beers using the rich, diverse ingredients of California, using classic styles. Their first beer, a bottle-conditioned Belgian-style golden ale, was sold out of a car trunk, but from humble beginnings came wild success. A slow release of quality craft beers grew into a going concern within 2 years, and by 2013 Almanac was a full-time gig. 2020 saw the company moving into their new 30,000 sq.ft. production facility in San Francisco Bay. Larger production allowed them to make some of their dream beers finally come true - barrel-aged sours, wild stouts, hazy IPAs, and more. Sunshine & Opportunity is a mixed-culture farmhouse ale that’s funky, tart, and takes a while ride on the palate from varied dry-hopping. Serves well at 8°C and should be enjoyed in the next three months.
Look
Pours a light golden colour with a clear body and low carbonation. A thin ring of white bubbles is all that remains after the pour.
Smell
The tart sour oak is very prominent at the front end of the nose, but the fruit makes a strong appeal after you get past it. The pear and tropical fruit notes are pleasant and sweet.
Taste
The sharp bite of the sour will make your mouth instantly water, but it’s quickly balanced by the sweet fruit and a touch of the malt. This is like drinking an aggressive glass of apple juice and that’s a compliment. The flavours balance well, delivering sweetness and character together, the body is light and fairly smooth with a slightly dry finish. A great patio beer is waiting for you.
Pairing
This is one that’s begging for a salty charcuterie board with plenty of fatty meats to knock out your taste buds.