Located in Portland, Maine, Allagash Brewing Company was founded in 1995 by Rob Tod with the objective to produce Belgian inspired and experimental ales.  Today, Allagash has six year round beers in its portfolio, seven yearly releases and numerous one-offs and keg only releases and has grown into one of the craft-beer industry’s most distinguished and well-respected brands.  I recently had Allagash Victor Ale from the tap at Pizza Port San Clemente (one of their “Guest” beers).  Victor is a limited annual release beer that is made with red grapes and is brewed to benefit the St. Lawrence Arts Center.  According to Allagash, “Over one hundred pounds of cabernet franc grapes were crushed on site and added directly to the mash. In addition to a generous portion of Pilsner malt, Victor is hopped with Fuggles and Hallertau and fermented with a wine yeast strain.”  Here are my tasting notes.

Allagash Victor Belgian-style Strong Pale Ale (9% ABV) – Victor Ale pours a clear gold color with white foam head consisting of tiny bubbles.  The beer has a distinctive sweet grape aroma.  Victor is medium-bodied with low carbonation feel on the tongue.  The beer initially  tastes somewhat apple sour/tart but is quickly followed by a sweet grape flavor.  Victor finishes with a mild peppery spice on the tongue and slightly dry.  Overall this beer is a little reminiscent of a cider and I’m left wondering if this beer would improve with some age.