Haskap Holiday

ARTWORK BY COCO MAIN

MIXED FERMENT ALE
4.8% ABV
SEASONS CHANGE

Also known as a ‘haskap’, the humble honeyberry grows very well in Scotland although is not native to this land. Often described as a long bobbly blueberry with a touch of raspberry, there are also grape-like qualities in its texture, taste and acidity. With many health benefits associated with the fruit it makes for a fascinating wee thing. Even the word ‘haskap’ derives from the Japanese name ‘Haskappu’ meaning: ‘little present at the end of the branch’. 

The fruit’s jammy, floral and vinous character pair excellently with a farmhouse style pale ale. This is not a sour beer. Although the 175g/L of haskaps displays a bright acidity up front. It was co-fermented with a Voss Kveik and farmhouse Saison strain to add a citrusy-spiced dryness, making you reach for that next sip. 

It pours a deep hazy coral colour and smells amazing. Aromas of orange & lemon peel waft up with notes of grapefruit, blueberry, hibiscus and honeysuckle. There’s also this creamy, marshmallow-sweet smell, conjuring up a bowel of strawberry ice cream. Yum!

When tasting there’s a mellow acidity combined with a medium bitterness. The honeyberries complement the citrus character of the Endeavour and Admiral hops. Then the dry saisony finish is backed up by the spicy quality you find in Endeavour. 

A complex and intriguing wee beer this is. Different and out there. But that’s what holidays are all about!