Oct 29, 2012

Allagash Fluxus 2011

Maine’s Allagash Brewing has been producing the limited release series known as Fluxus since 2007, but this is the first time I’ve even encountered the brew in local shops. In fact, I was able to purchase this particular bottle of the 2011 version (a 8% ABV Biere de Garde) and a bottle of this year’s release (review coming later this week). The brewery changes up the recipe for this release each year.

For the 2011 version a combination of “Belgian pilsen malt, light munich, malted wheat and a variety of aromatic and colored malts” were employed for the backbone. The beer was then hopped with Alsatian Brewers Gold. I never had this beer fresh, but this one year old bottle is lightly malty with a clean, subtle Belgian character that makes for an easy drinking brew.

Appearance

Fluxus pours with a large, frothy head that rests persistently atop the dark amber brew. It certainly looks tasty.

Aroma

Light caramel, grain, subtle yeast notes and a hint of spices fills the nose along with a light fruity presence.

Taste

Light citrus fruits, a subtle funk, spice hints, yeast and a bready malt backbone all arrive on the palate smoothly. The beer has a muted character but that’s to be expected based on the age and style of the beer. It’s still crisp on the tongue and has a touch of a hop presence in the finish that leaves a light lingering tingle of bitterness. There’s not much of an alcohol presence in the beer.

Overall

I thoroughly enjoyed this beer. It was much maltier than expected for the style, but not in a fashion that overpowered the Belgian aspect of the brew. It has a great flavor and is easy drinking. I just wish I was able to find it fresh.

Rating: 3.75/5

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