A Taste of… Wacko

Magic Hat Brewing Company
South Burlington, VT (USA)

Preface:
This is not the first time I’ve encountered this Wacko…

On a recent road trip through New England I stopped in at the brewery in South Burlington and met Matt Cohen, the brewer of Wacko and the rest of the Magic Hat line of brews. The initial part of the tour was given by the Curator of Curiosities, Krissy Leonard, an articulate and able guide.

At the end of the visit we were presented with two growlers of Magic Hat brews. One was Wacko. Both growlers survived two days in a car and hotel rooms.

When the Wacko Growler was opened it was well chilled and it was a hot Saturday afternoon. I did not keep notes for that tasting but I do remember it being refreshing enough to result in a rather short shelf life.

Today’s more analytical notes…

Appearance: (The label lets you know there is “beet juice color” in this brew.) What we have here is a slightly hazy (chill?) golden brew with just a hint of ruby (think cranberry). The head is a slightly sandy construction of large and small bubbles resulting in a rocky foam that leaves very nicely knit Belgian lace.


Aroma: As soon as this bottle was opened there was an aroma of malty beer. The first impression is slightly confusing due to the slight pink and the anticipation of something citric or fruity. Thus the first impression is that of new mowed lawn with a whiff of malted grain. The second and third impressions pick up a fleeting image of cranberry (blame that on the color). From lip to sip the impression was unchanged.

Mouth feel: The initial mouth feel is pleasantly effervescent and then the first flavors kick in…

Flavor: Initial impression is a dry sensation and a quick spike of unidentifiable hop tang. The second impression is almost citric but without a sharp spike sensation. The third impression has no argument with the previous two.

Finish: The last sensation is a memory of the first flavor sensations. It finishes fast and fleeting.

Comments: I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again, I’m sure, the folks at Magic hat constantly amaze me. There range of beers is both amusing and entertaining. I’m never quite sure what I’m getting, but it will be interesting.

Magic Hat Brewing Company: http://www.magichat.net

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