Balla-Mara

ARTWORK BY CHRISTINA RILEY

GOSE WITH SCOTTISH SEA BUCKTHORN
4.5% ABV
SEASONS CHANGE

A modest dose of @blackthornsalt and East Lothian sea buckthorn creates a distinctive character to this bright, zingy and refreshing sour beer. 

@seabuckthornscotland is a social enterprise who ethically forage their berries over on the East Coast. The resplendent wee fruit packs a tart and restorative punch. It also boasts of several health benefits. A perfect addition to any cleansing Spring ale! 

It can, however, become astringent and so only a very small amount was used to complement the clean and citrusy Lactobacillus plantarum culture. Along with the freshly ground coriander and Scottish sea salt, a floral, and slightly sweet flavour arises. 

The sparingly dosed sea buckthorn means a bright straw colour is achieved with a bit of haze. You can smell the berry too. The aromas oscillate between fruity and creamy esters. Some peachy and even pineapple notes come to mind. Pleasant memories of drinking Lilt as a kid in the summer pop up too. However, the dominant fruity note is citrusy and a clean lemon one at that. 

The salt is subtle but it’s there. By the mid palate you get its delicate sweet and umami character. A touch of its tannic nature is present too enthused by the hardy blackthorn branches, which the Scottish sea water is filtered through several times over. The addition is on the lower side of stylistic guidelines (88g/L). Just enough to notice it’s there and for it to work its magic; the salt makes for a dry and crisp finish, which will leave you feeling refreshed.