Ship of Fools

Oak Aged, Wild Fermented Sour Red Ale Brewed in May of 2011, and aging in oak barrels since June of that year, CBC’s Ship of Fools is a testament to patience and the effects of time on wild beer production. [wpex more="Read more" less="Read Less"] Inspired by the classic red/brown ales of Flanders in Belgium, this has been a greatly rewarding project for our brewers. Starting with a grist of Pilsner, Munich, Caramunich and caramel malts combined with 3 year old Saaz hops, this beer was fermented initially in stainless steel with our house Belgian yeast strain. The primary yeast was then removed, and the beer was pumped into French oak barrels from Merryvale Winery, formerly containing Carbernet Sauvignon and Merlot. After warming to cellar temp, the beer was inoculated with a blend of wild yeasts and bacteria, including both Lactobacillus and Brettanomyces. A slow secondary fermentation occurred, transforming a somewhat simple beer into to a complex, fruit and tannin laced beauty. Ship of Fools presents a deep red brown color with ruby orange highlights and a white head that quickly settles to a thin ring around the glass. The nose is rich with cherries, oak and notes of caramel. Presenting a complex blend of flavors including dark ripe fruit, fig, cherry, caramel and hints of cracker and chocolate, Ship of Fools is balanced with a complex acid profile, firm oak tannins and an exceptionally dry finish. Well balanced, earthy, lightly spicy and refreshing, this beer is made for pairing with cheeses and tart desserts. Special thanks to all the brewers who have come before us, who have demonstrated the patience needed to develop such interesting complexity in their beers. Enjoy! Flute $6.00[/wpex]

Original Gravity
1.068/16.5*P

Final Gravity
1.004/1*P

Alcohol By Volume
8.4%