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Phil Farrell's picture

Annabel Lee White

August, 2015

Annabel Lee White

Judges Rating: 
85
Aroma: 
21 / 24
Appearance: 
4 / 6
Flavor: 
35 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
8 / 10
Overall Impression: 
17 / 20

A hazy, light, straw-colored beer sits before me with just a trace of white bubbles ringing the glass. The aroma is slightly spicy with hints of citrusy orange. As it warms, there is a distinct bready wheat aroma with the spice becoming more distinctly coriander with slight notes of clove and vanilla. Everything is very subtle and pleasant. Even when I swirl the glass, the beer refuses to form a noticeable or lasting head even with sufficient carbonation. The flavors are light and consistent with the aroma. The taste buds get the same treat as the nostrils, with a little orange, coriander and bread followed quickly by just enough bitterness to allow for a touch of sweetness in the finish. This beer is very light on the palate.  There is a little orange peel tartness on the tip of the tongue as well as a wheat flour coating in the middle that sometimes comes from unmalted wheat. Both add a little complexity to the overall experience. I also detect just a touch of drying oxidation, which is not uncommon with beer styles that are delicate like this one. A very refreshing summer wheat beer.