Wheatwine
Introduction – by Firkin Ron
The term beer style refers to a broad set of descriptors used to differentiate and categorize types of beers. Descriptors such as color, flavor, strength, ingredients, production method, recipe, history, and origin create the framework for establishing a beer style.
And almost any time you buy a beer, the beer lists its style on the packaging. Why? To provide the buyer with a basic preview and understanding of the beer’s look, smell, taste and drinkability.
Today there are hundreds of documented beer styles. Furthermore, a handful of organizations created their own unique classifications. However, the Beer Judge Certification Program (BJCP) provides one of the most commonly used set of style guidelines.
This week’s beer style overview features a rare style called Wheatwine.
Wheatwine – by Owen Ogletree
Here’s another flavorful craft beer style that has drifted into obscurity. Imagine a strong, malty Barleywine made with 50% wheat malt for bold, grainy/bready flavors of cereal, fruity esters, warming alcohol and light notes of caramel and dark honey. Some versions are oak-aged for added vanilla and sherry essence, and hops usually take a backseat to the complex wheat character. Wheatwines possess an alcohol content of 8.0–12.0% and are made with alcohol tolerant American ale yeast strains, so clove-like, spicy Bavarian wheat beer notes are not appropriate. Color ranges from deep gold to dark copper, and the beer offers a rich, creamy head when poured into a large glass. Terrapin’s Gamma Ray is a flavorful Wheatwine made with lots of honey. I’d love to see more Wheatwines pop up in brewpubs and craft breweries around the USA. Has anyone enjoyed one lately?
Have you enjoyed a Wheatwine lately?
About Owen Ogletree
Owen is founder/editor of Brewtopia LLC. In addition, he is columnist for Southern Brew News and Beer Connoisseur Magazine, lecturer at Knoxville’s Brewing & Distilling Center, founder/director of the Atlanta Cask Ale Tasting and Classic City Brew Fest, and a BJCP National Beer Judge. Owen has also served as a beer judge at the Great American Beer Festival and the Great British Beer Festival.