Fort Collins Out of the Ashes Rauchbier
If the expansive growth and popularity in craft beer has give us one thing, it’s access to many more breweries than in years past. I don’t believe that I’ve encountered any of Fort Collins Brewery’s product in prior to coming across a bottle of their Out of the Ashes Rauchbier. And I don’t believe that I would have ever seen this beer had the industry not exploded.
Out of the Ashes is a limited run of beers from the brewery that, according to the company’s website, “…showcase the varied and unique flavors and aromas delivered from malt smoked over wood-burning fires.” This particular brew, a 6% ABV Rauchbier, employs at least two different woods to impart it’s smokey flavors. Both oak and beechwood influence the malt to varying degrees creating a beer that is not only nicely smoked, but also incredibly smooth for the style.
Appearance
I’ve had some lighter colored rauchbiers before, but this is probably the palest I’ve seen. It looks more like a pale ale — straw yellow in color with a dense cap of white foam.
Aroma
Out of the Ashes Rauchbier certainly has that smokey character you want from this style. It’s not as meaty as most and has a bit of a grassy/herbal quality, as well.
Taste
The first thing you notice is just how incredibly smooth this beer is. It’s got a smokey, lightly meaty character, but it’s not nearly as aggressive as most of its peers in the genre. It imparts a smokey flavor without destroying tastebuds and doesn’t really require any adjustments on your part to enjoy. There are also hints of grain, grassy hops, soft bready notes and a light sweetness.
Overall
I like Out of the Ashes Rauchbier, but when I’m in the mood for a rauchbier, I want a good bit more smoke and meat on the palate. That said, the smoothness and “drinkability” of this take on the style is impressive nonetheless.
Rating: 3.75/5
