Oct 29, 2014

Sierra Nevada Canfusion

And the Sierra Nevada Beercamp Across America train keeps on chugging. Up next is Canfusion, a collaborative endeavor with the good folks at Oskar Blues Brewing. This 7.2% ABV and 45 IBU bock is packed to the rim with a solid amount of rye and citrusy hops.

With the array of flavors that this beer brings to the table it’s moniker is more than appropriate. Canfusion isn’t sure what sort of beer it wants to be when it grows up. Is it a bock, a spicy rye ale or a hoppy pale? Whatever it really is, the brew still intrigues with a depth of flavor and uniqueness all its own.

Appearance

Canfusion pours witha frothy cap of off-white foam atop the clear amber brew.

Sierra Nevada Canfusion photo

Aroma

Spicy rye dominates as citrusy, grassy hops quickly follow. Crackers and bready malt rest comfortably in the background.

Taste

While the nose was packed with rye, the flavor sees (tastes?) it take a step back as citrusy hops push forward through caramel, cereal and a moderate sweetness. There’s a decent level of hop bitterness that lingers in the lasting and lightly warming finish.

Overall

I’m not sure I’d call this beer a bock. Truth be told, I’m not sure what I would call it, but it’s certainly got the right name on its can — it is one confused beer. I liked the spicy rye and the citrusy punch, but not sure it all works together here. And then you toss in a solid malt backbone and the tastebuds are even more bewildered. Still, I didn’t hate it.

Rating: 3.5/5

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