New from Wasatch: White Label

Wasatch Brewing is debuting a new label just in time for the holidays. Wasatch White Ale is a Belgian Style Wtibier made in the tradition of such favorites as Hoegaarden and Blue Moon.

Pours a white, cloudy corn color with a thin frothy cap. The nose is of sulphur, wheat, banana and a little coriander. The taste is very similar to the nose with that odd sulfur essence leading off. Next comes bready wheat, then a dry banana. The finish has a minor "zesty" orange peel twang.

The sulfur notes are huge and put me off a bit. So I grabbed a Hoegaarden to make a comparison to see if my palate was off. As it turns out the Hoegaarden was spot on. Wheaty, spicy, hints of orange, mellow citrus, good carbonation & balanced after taste. Everything I was hoping the Wasatch's Wit to be. Now, White Label isn't bad a bad wit even though it is on the stronger side of the style at 6.0% ABV. White Labels isn't due on DABC shelves for a few days. Still, I hope that they are able to correct the sulfur problem in future batches because it is a little offsetting. If your looking for other great local takes on this style try RedRock's Wit, Squatters' Witbier and Rype from Four+. Cheers!

Dirty Little Secrets

Everyone has those dirty little secrets about themselves that they like to keep hidden. You know, parts of your personality; that if were to get out would destroy or taint what little credibility you have with your friends and family. You know like... like... liking ABBA. Okay I said!!!

I-like-ABBA, so fuck you!... Now before you start tuning-out let me get on with my point. In the world of the beer-snob there are all kinds people with little dark secrets. You know, that guy who only drinks true Belgium beers, but keeps a "Natty-Light" hidden in the back of the fridge "just in case" someone comes by. My dark beer secrets are PBR and Blue Moon. Again, fuck you!

I can't help you with the PBR. There are thousands of alternatives to hide your proclivity for cheap beers, but if your embarrassed to show up with the Blue Moon or simply want an alternative to it, I have a great and somewhat better alternative in Hoegaarden. Some would say this is the Witbier that all others are judged. I'm not sure about that but it is quite good and widely available around the Wasatch Front.

Poured into a branded Hoegaarden glass a dull, cloudy yellow color with a frothy two fingers of head. The nose is sweet and fruity with banana, pear and sweet melon. Taste starts with sweet spices, banana, melon and some coriander. Next comes notes of bready wheat, but the fruit flavors dominate. The finish was very mild with light, floral hops. The mouthfeel is light with moderate carbonation. 4.9% abv. This is a great summer session beer. Very drinkable because of it's light body, well-balanced; smooth and creamy flavor. Mama-Mia!