Hello everyone.  For today’s craft beer review I’m going to be trying the Mikkeller It’s Alive (Belgian Ale Aged In White Wine Barrels) produced by the Mikkeller Brewery located in Kobenhavn, Denmark.

Let’s skip all of the small talk get right to the beer.

Unfortunately, I’m having a hard time finding a commercial description of this brew. Just be sure to check out their website, mikkeller.dk, sometime and cruise around. They have some very interesting reads on there.

Time for the pour.

This brew came in a 12.7 oz. bottle and it had an ABV of 8.0%.

It poured a hazy, burgundy/red color.  The crown was an off white color and it was sized very well.  The texture was a touch soapy and sudsy, however it maintained its form and girth for a few moments and when it finally settled it left behind some real nice lacing.  A tremendous looking beer in my opinion.

The bouquet released hints of gorgeous soured grapes and some sour apple.  A very slight amount of funk was found along with a good dose of yeast.  Quite bready too. A very easy going, but duly noted hint of wood came through as the brew warmed to add a little bit of an earthy smell.  Overall, the balance was spectacular and the fragrance was very inviting.

The flavor let loose of some sour, tarty grapes and red apples.  It came off a touch acidic, but in a good way.  A very subtle tickle of peppery spice was discovered as well as some funky goodness.  The breadiness was tasted again, which helped counterbalance the tartness.  I didn’t acquire any of the wood though.  Very tasty nonetheless.

The mouthfeel was medium bodied.  Very dry with a sharpness that smoothed out nicely as it warmed.  A lively amount of carbonation aided in keeping the palate drenched with the essence of the brew.

Man!!!  The Mikkeller It’s Alive (Belgian Ale Aged In White Wine Barrels) is a winner in my book.  It was a wonderful beer and a super easy drink.  It really opened up and became more harmonious as I made my way through the bottle.  It totally hit the spot that’s for sure.  I’d highly recommend you guys give it a try if you happen across it. Be sure to leave a comment if you have sampled it.  I’d love to hear if you guys enjoyed it as much as I did.

Thanks for reading everyone.  I really appreciate it.

Until next time.  Cheers.

Score:  4.4 out of 5
Grade:  A