Sierra Nevada Brux Domesticated Wild Ale
Apparently a few years in the making, Brux is a collaborative effort from Russian River and Sierra Nevada brewing companies. I’m not sure if that’s just a logistical metaphor or if it really did take that long to wrangle the Brettanomyces bruxellensis that’s added to each bottle — I’m assuming that “domesticating” a wild yeast ain’t easy.
At any rate, I’m glad the two companies figured it out. It’s not often that I get a chance to enjoy a product (collaborative or not) from Russian River. Thankfully, the beer (a 8.3% ABV wild ale) was carried under the Sierra Nevada moniker and their subsequent network of distributors or I’d never have had the opportunity to sample this tasty brew.
Appearance
The initial pour of Brux is pretty darn clear, but later pours were hazy due to the yeasty sediment having been stirred up. The beer is golden amber in color and sat with a smallish white head.
Aroma
Grassy hops, grain and a subtle funk come together for a subtle though balanced nose. It has a Saison-like quality.
Taste
Thankfully the flavor profile of Brux isn’t as subtle as the aroma. The Saison-like base of the beer allows for a touch of funk to emerge and last from the initial contact with the tongue all the way through to the drying finish and lingering bit of tartness. Along with the grain and grassy hops are hints of pear and lemon zest. All attributes come together nicely for a clean drinking beer. The carbonation is crisp giving the beer a refreshing quality as the elevated alcohol leaves a glowing warmth late in the finish.
Overall
This is one of those beers that will change mightily throughout it’s lifetime in the bottle. The wild yeast will surely develop over time. Right now, the beer drinks well and has a light amount of funk that’s balanced wonderfully with the grainy malt and light hop character. I’m going to try and get a couple more bottles to set aside for a while — I’m curious (and excited) to see how the Brett develops after some cellaring.
Rating: 4/5
