Mikkeller Spontankriek
Last week, in a review published for Mikkeller’s Black Hole, I mentioned that my relationship with the brewery has been rocky at times. I loved Black Hole, but this particular, wild-fermentation brew would be a valley in that rocky history. Spontankriek is a spontaneously fermented lambic that’s been aged in oak barrels. So far, so good. Right?
Well, not so much. For the most part, this beer is rather good. It’s got a solid tartness that’s to be expected as well as the right amount of fruitiness. The problem with this particular bottle is the off-putting, medicinal after taste that lingers for a good long while. At first I didn’t think much of it — perhaps this particular bottle was a little off. But then in trying out another of their wild brews (a review for Spontanwildstrawbeery will be coming tomorrow), I noticed a similar medicinal trait though not as severe as Spontankriek. At any rate, I powered through the bottle, having spent good money on it.
Appearance
Spontankriek certainly looks good in the glass, pouring a garnet in color with a light pink head that fell slowly to patchy surface cover.
Aroma
A solid tartness wafts up from the glass grabbing the tongue a bit without actually entering the mouth. There’s a solid bit of cherries and a light grain presence, as well.
Taste
A sharp tartness attacked the tongue quickly before fading smoothly to a fruity finish that is prickly and dry. There’s a distinct medicinal character that comes out late in the finish and doesn’t go away easily. It’s similar to the aftertaste that Chloraseptic® Spray leaves behind. It’s a little too distracting to fully enjoy the beer. For 7.7% ABV, there’s not much of an alcohol presence.
Overall
I really wanted more out of this beer, especially for the price point that I paid. It’s not a horrible tasting brew, but that medicinal element was just too much to ignore. I’m not sure that I’d buy this again, but if I can find it cheaper, maybe I’ll give it a second chance.
Rating: 3/5
