Tillamook, Oregon, besides being the home of a certain cheese company, has become synonymous in the past three years with sour beers thanks to the work of de Garde Brewing. First beginning operations in 2013, this small operation brewing primarily European farmhouse and wild ales quickly became a sour beer phenomenon. Hundreds drive from miles around for de Garde’s subscription-based release parties, and there are likely few brewmasters in Oregon who do not count de Garde as one of their favorite competitors.
For the Corbeau Noir, head brewer Trevor Rogers has concocted a bourbon barrel-aged, dark ale ripping with flavor, and not to shy on the alcohol percentage either. This medium-bodied beer hits the ground running with notes of cherry, coffee and chocolate on the nose, while the palate features hints vanilla, dark fruits and, of course, bourbon. The tartness one expects from a sour is definitely present, but not overpowering, allowing for a excellent aperitif, or a choice pairing with barbeque. Although this beer is currently only available by the bottle in de Garde’s Tillamook tasting room, the brewery is expected to start a canning operation in the near future, so fingers crossed this will be on the list.
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