Crazy to read about Draai Laag in Beer Advocate and then literally days later, see a bottle of Relic on the shelves at Sunset Beer. So I took it as a sign and grabbed a bottle to review.
This “Wild by Design” beer is made with the Relic Strain, and we’ll let the website explain more…
“Long story short – we came into possession of a French Monastic cabinet dated from the 17th century and, naturally, set to work extracting a yeast strain from the layers of wax used to preserve it. Hops were added sparingly, allowing the uniquely earthy, musty and citrusy flavors of this ancient strain to shine.”
The Wild Ale pours a turbid orange. I expect nothing less from the East Coast. Aroma is tart for sure. Sweet tart meets barnyard is my initial reaction. Quite acidic on the stomach. Tasting some grapefruit pith. A bit of an oaky wood note fights through the tart. Not complex and not simplistic. Points inbetween to me.
I like it but I also think that I need to taste other beers to truly gauge this particular beer.