Logboat Brewing Company’s (Columbia, Missouri) LEI-A is a Berliner Weisse that showcases the brewery’s innovative approach to traditional styles. This beer has seen various iterations, including flavors like guava, strawberry and lemon, and more recently, cranberry and orange. The iteration we’re reviewing is the strawberry and lemon version.
Appearance
In its strawberry and lemon variant, LEI-A pours a hazy golden hue with a modest off-white head that leaves subtle lacing.
Aroma
The nose is greeted with a medley of tart fruit aromas, where the strawberry sweetness is front and center, but it intertwines with the lemon and Berliner Weisse’s characteristic sour notes.
Flavor
On the palate, LEI-A delivers a harmonious balance of tartness and fruitiness. The strawberry imparts a juicy, sweet flavor that complements the beer’s natural acidity, resulting in a refreshingly crisp and mildly sour experience. Notably, the fruit presence is distinct yet restrained, ensuring it doesn’t overshadow the base beer’s profile.
Mouthfeel
Light-bodied with moderate carbonation, LEI-A is both effervescent and smooth, making it an easy drinking option suitable for various occasions.
Overall Impression
LEI-A stands out as a well-executed fruited Berliner Weisse that offers complexity without compromising drinkability. The thoughtful integration of the strawberry and lemon provides a unique twist, appealing to both sour beer aficionados and those new to the style.
Ratings
- Appearance: 4/5 – Hazy and vibrant, though not ground breaking.
- Aroma: 4/5 – Bright and fruity, with a pleasant hop presence.
- Flavor: 3.8/5 – Balanced and approachable, though not overly complex.
- Mouthfeel: 3.8/5 – Light and crisp, with a smooth finish.
- Overall: 3.9/5 – A well crafted beer that excels in drinkability and balance.
Logboat Brewing Company’s LEI-A is an enjoyable example of a fruited Berliner Weisse, delivering a balanced and flavorful drinking experience that highlights the brewery’s dedication to quality and creativity. One of the best aspects of LEI-A is its versatility. It’s a beer that can appeal to a wide range of drinkers, from those new to craft beer to seasoned hop heads looking for something lighter.
If you’ve tried any of the versions of LEI-A, please share your thoughts about it in the comments section below.
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