Almanac White Label 2016
Almanac White Label 2016 is a beer-wine hybrid for the curious — 7.5% ABV, 12oz, a sour blonde ale aged in wine barrels with Muscat Blanc grapes and a touch of coriander, dry-hopped with Hallertau Blanc. Almanac ferments it with the brewery's house "Dogpatch" culture of wild Belgian and American yeasts, then ages it — grapes and all — in neutral red wine barrels and oak foeders. It is available to order online at Del Mesa Liquor.
- ABV: 7.5%
- Size: 12oz
- Style: Sour blonde / wild ale
- Fruit & spice: California Muscat Blanc grapes, coriander
- Aging: Neutral red wine barrels and oak foeders; dry-hopped with Hallertau Blanc
- Origin: Almanac Beer Company, Alameda, California — 2016 vintage
Where Beer Meets White Wine
White Label pairs two "blancs": Muscat Blanc grapes from California vineyards and Hallertau Blanc hops from Germany, known for their Sauvignon Blanc-like character. The result pours hazy gold with a vinous nose of white grape, apricot, lychee and lemongrass over gentle Brett funk — tart but highly drinkable. See more sour and wild ales at Del Mesa Liquor, and compare it with its funkier sibling from Almanac, the Saison de Brettaville.
Tasting Notes
Nose: Vinous white grape, citrus, wild yeast and hay. Palate: Grapefruit, wine grapes, banana and floral notes over refreshing tartness. Finish: Dry, lightly oaked, mellow.
How to Enjoy
Chill well and pair with mussels steamed in coconut curry, fresh pad thai, or macadamia-crusted halibut — the beer's bright acidity loves rich, aromatic food.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Almanac White Label? A sour blonde ale aged in wine barrels with Muscat Blanc grapes, coriander and Hallertau Blanc hops — a deliberate beer-wine hybrid.
How sour is White Label? Noticeably tart but balanced — reviewers call it very drinkable, less aggressive than Almanac's deeper sours.
What grapes are used? California-grown Muscat Blanc, aged with the beer in neutral red wine barrels and oak foeders.
Two blancs, one bottle — order Almanac White Label 2016 online at Del Mesa Liquor, San Diego, CA.