About the Dissident Cherry Variant
The craft beer scene is all about innovation, unique flavors, and revisiting classics with a twist. Perhaps this is why the return of one particularly sought-after brew, the Dissident Cherry Variant, has the beer aficionados buzzing again. Formerly produced by Deschutes Brewery, this seasonal variant has become a carved niche beloved by many.
The Cherry on top: A Unique Twist on a Classic
But first, let’s rewind a bit and introduce the origins of this brew. The base beer is an Oud Bruin – a traditional Flemish style of sour beer – that Deschutes Brewery has lovingly christened “The Dissident”. Imagine a concoction of malts, oats and locally grown cherries that is then fermented using wild yeast strains for quite some time. The result is a sour, delicious beer with a unique identity and depth of flavor.
Now, picture this classic masterpiece with an added twist. This is where the Cherry Variant enters the scene. Amplifying the fruity aspects of the original brew, this version is loaded with an even larger amount of whole cherries during the fermenting stage. This not only imparts a heavier fruit flavor but results in a darker, more decadent hue and a slightly increased alcohol content.
Beer Specs and Tasting Notes
The Dissident Cherry Variant integrates not one, but two types of cherries -Sweet and Tart. The beer clocks in an alcohol content of about 11.7% with a fine balance between sour and sweet notes. When you pour it out, you get a deep ruby color, almost resembling an elegant glass of red wine. A sniff will deliver heavy notes of cherry, oak, and a slight hint of mustiness that’s characteristically ‘Flemish’. As for the taste, expect an exhilarating interplay between sour cherries, sweet malty richness, and a touch of tannic oak character. The finish is delightfully long, leaving a lingering cherry tartness, a touch of vanilla, and a warming alcohol presence.
A Seasonal Delight
Being one of the much-loved variants of The Dissident, it’s no secret that folks eagerly anticipate the release of the Cherry Variant. But here’s the catch – Similar to its base beer, this cherry variant is also fermented with wild yeast, and needs a significant aging period. So typically, it is brewed and then aged in barrels for up to 18 months. No wonder, it is a released as a seasonal variant and not a regular lineup.
The Return of the Cherry Variant
Given the complexity involved in its brewing process, the return of the Dissident Cherry Variant is certainly an event worth celebrating for beer enthusiasts. This iteration has been awaited by many since it was last released, and the buzz created in the beer community is tangible.
The Verdict?
Ultimately, the Dissident Cherry Variant proves that there are still endless possibilities for innovation in the field of beer brewing. From its deep, inviting color to the complex yet well-balanced flavor profiles, it is a testament to Deschutes Brewery’s dedication to crafting superb and exciting brews.
Where to Get it…
It’s no doubt that this prized cherry delight flies off the shelves quite fast. Your best bet would be to check with Deschutes Brewery directly or your local specialty beer store. Remember to enjoy responsibly and appreciate the craftsmanship that goes into each sip. Cheers!
The Dissident Cherry Variant is a spectacular twist on a traditional brew that has managed to captivate the craft beer community. Its unique blend of ingredients and intricate brewing process lends it a distinctive flavor and rich, dark coloration. The usage of both Sweet and Tart cherries indeed accentuates the fruitiness, while subtly enhancing the overall alcohol content. Its intriguing balance between sour and sweet, coupled with a visually enticing deep ruby pour, only adds to its allure. This beer is indeed a testament to the creativity and innovation in the craft beer scene.