New Glarus Brewing Company
Stone Soup
Belgian Pale Ale
Wisconsin
5.3%
12oz, 6-Pack
$8.99
Finger or so of bright white foam, slightly irregular surface, dissipates to a surface coating that stays steady at that, no real lacing to speak of. Darkly golden hued liquid, filmy, noticeably large bubbles both in beads and scattered, inviting. At first the nose is almost totally banana and bubblegum, over time clove, white pepper, damp yeast, lemon zest blend in, yellow apple, pear to apricot fruit scents appear, achieves a fine balance between richness and freshness, never feels sluggish in the nostrils. Lighter attack but in the end medium-bodied, the carbonation tends to fluff it up more than tickle the tongue. That banana, bubblegum and yeastiness more than met by spicy coriander, cardamom, clove notes. Less peppery though and more floral, lilacs and fragrant cut flowers. Clean, little funkiness or mustiness and develops a mineral water touch at the end. More scone or muffin than bread per se. More orange than lemon citrus but both present. The fruit comes off a little lean, apricot, pineapple, apple but this also helps rein in the sweetness. Very easy drinking, perhaps more expressive warmer but more poundable cold.
4 out of 5