Wide Street Réserve Spéciale stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication inherent in Ireland's burgeoning craft beer scene. This barrel-aged wild sour ale is the culmination of over two years of patient aging in Chardonnay barrels, resulting in a beer that is both deeply complex and refreshingly unique.
Brewery Information:
Established in 2018, Wide Street Brewing Company is an independent microbrewery located in Ballymahon, County Longford, Ireland. The brewery specialises in wild and mixed fermentation beers, farmhouse ales, Saisons, sours, and barrel-aged brews. Utilising traditional brewing processes with open-top fermenters, Wide Street Brewing is committed to producing unfiltered, unpasteurised beers that are can-conditioned, meaning they undergo refermentation in the can with a champagne yeast strain.
This dedication to traditional methods and innovative fermentation techniques has positioned Wide Street Brewing as a notable player in the Irish craft beer industry.
Tasting Notes:
- Appearance: Pours a hazy golden hue with a frothy white head that dissipates slowly, leaving a delicate lacing on the glass.
- Aroma: The nose is greeted with vibrant notes of citrus zest, green apple, and subtle hints of oak, complemented by a gentle funk characteristic of wild fermentation.
- Flavour: A harmonious blend of tart citrus and green apple flavours upfront, transitioning into nuanced layers of vanilla and light tannins imparted by the Chardonnay barrels. The sourness is balanced, providing a refreshing yet complex taste experience.
- Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied with a smooth, effervescent carbonation that enhances the beer's refreshing qualities. The finish is dry, with lingering notes of oak and a pleasant tartness.
Food Pairings:
Réserve Spéciale's complex flavour profile makes it a versatile companion to a variety of dishes:
Cheeses: Pairs excellently with creamy cheeses like Brie or Camembert, as well as tangy goat cheese, where the beer's acidity cuts through the richness.
Seafood: Complements dishes such as grilled salmon, seared scallops, or oysters, with the citrus notes enhancing the natural flavours of the seafood.
Poultry: Enhances roasted or grilled chicken dishes, especially those prepared with herbs and lemon, mirroring the beer's citrus elements.
Salads: Works well with fresh salads featuring vinaigrettes, particularly those incorporating fruits like apples or pears, aligning with the beer's fruity undertones.
Experience the craftsmanship of Wide Street Brewing with Réserve Spéciale, a barrel-aged wild sour ale that encapsulates the essence of craft beer Ireland. Whether you're a seasoned aficionado or new to the world of sour ales, this brew offers a tasting journey that is both refreshing and complex. Get your craft beer delivered to your door with TheCru.ie. Shop the best of craft beer Ireland and from around the world online with TheCru.ie or in our Dublin craft beer store, Carry Out Tyrrelstown in Dublin 15.