CURTIS HENRY
Sports Editor
As always, it is imperative to take three things into account when reading this column. First, I am not a beer expert. Second, I am not a professional food critic. Finally, I probably shouldn’t even write for the Life & Arts section. Ever.
Yet, here we are. Another week, another brew. This week’s item up for discussion: Raspberry Beret.
Perhaps the most interesting brew I’ve tried to date, EBC’s Raspberry Beret is unique in almost every aspect. Just another example of how EBC’s selection is diverse enough for anyone and everyone. This particular brew is a real treat.
Its alcohol by volume is a mean seven percent, classifying the ale as an imperial. Don’t be fooled, though. This is not your dad’s typical imperial.
When hearing the word “imperial” as it pertains to beer, a couple things tend to come to mind. Imperials are expected to be brutal and pack a punch. They seem to be harder, more bitter brews and many of them are IPAs.
Raspberry Beret is none of these things. Raspberry Beret is sweet and sour, and by tasting it you would never guess that it has any business being invited to the party of imperials. That’s exactly where it ends up, and it’s nothing short of an anomaly. This is the antithesis of your everyday imperial, and it is magnificent.
Defined by EBC as “a kettle sour ale infused with fresh raspberries,” this stuff lacks a true identity in the best way possible. Its taste roams somewhere between a wine cooler and a hard cider, and the raspberry accent provides a taste that is both tart and crisp. It is certainly an enjoyable “anytime” beer, as you can throw it back with ease.
During an EBC happy hour, it’ll run you four bucks per round. If you’re looking to lose touch with reality quick, it’s an obvious choice. Three of these bad boys will take away any care in the world and your ability to drive. Raspberry Beret is dangerous and mysterious in all of the best ways, and it’s something that even the most casual of beer drinkers can enjoy to the fullest.
The perfect beer doesn’t exist, but this is pretty damn close. EBC’s website claims that the brew is available in July only as a one month release, but clearly it has got more staying power than anticipated. Grab one of these to ease the pain of another Bills’ loss or while out to dinner with your grandma. It really doesn’t matter in the slightest; the experience is going to be just the same.
Rating: 4.5/ 5.0
Verdict: This is something worthy of being in the regular beer rotation
