Reviews are done by Jim Matt, our Chief Science Officer, who is also a veteran FoBAB judge, GABF judge, and BJCP Master judge.

Brittlebrain (8.6% | 22 IBU) is our Belgian Style Golden Ale collab with Cincinnati Museum Center, brewed specially for Jurassic Geist on May 15th!

Malts: Pilsner, Acid, Flaked Wheat

Hops: Magnum, Tettnanger

Brittlebrain is a Belgian Style Golden Ale. Talk about the history of that style and Belgian beer, in general.

Technically, the style is “Belgian Golden Strong,” but the word “strong” is not permitted in beer style naming. Anyway, this style was Belgium’s answer to Pilsners. It has the simple malt bill of a Pilsner, with some sugar added to increase fermentability and to help dry the beer out.

What are the notable characteristics of this beer?

Light in color and body, with a substantial but hidden amount of alcohol.

What makes this beer unique?

The fact that it is a light colored beer that is also high in alcohol, and is actually relatively easy to drink!

Brittlebrain is a collaboration with Cincinnati Museum Center for our Jurassic Geist event. What is you favorite dinosaur?

The triceratops!

What are some other Belgian Golden Ales that you dig?

Duvel, Westmalle Tripel and Delirium Tremens.

Appearance: Light gold in color, slightly hazy, thick head with good head retention.

Aroma: Medium fruity aroma, hints of pear and apple. Low spicy, peppery phenol aroma. Malt aroma is low, hop aroma is low. Slightly spicy.

Taste: Medium fruity esters (pear and apple). Low spicy phenolics. Low malt flavor. Medium bitterness, low spicy hop flavor. Very dry finish.

Mouthfeel: Light body. Some alcohol warmth. Low astringency.

Overall: A deceptively easy-to-drink light colored Belgian Golden (Strong) Ale.

What foods would pair well with Brittlebrain?

Arugula salad with raspberry vinaigrette or a Belgian cheese plate.

Ideal glassware for Brittlebrain?

Tulip glass.