Beer Reviews

Raspy Cat (Fruited Wheat Beer)

One colorful cat.

Glowing with a ruby red haze and purring with vibrant berry notes, Raspy Cat is a tasty trip through vibrant fields of flavor. Juicy additions of raspberry and cherry give this wheat beer loads of bright fruit character, and a refreshing, slightly tart finish. 

Reviews are done by our Sensory Specialist Travis Houston, a Certified Cicerone and FoBAB judge.

Malt: Ohio Pilsner, White Wheat, Dextrin Malt, Oats

Hop: Ella, Cascade

Raspy Cat is our first Fruited Wheat beer to get canned. What makes it such a great beer?

Using wheat in the malt bill of a beer contributes a hint of fruity citrus, as well as imparting a slightly fuller, smoother mouthfeel. This is the perfect base for fruit additions, which is exactly what we did with Raspy Cat. Loads of real cherry and raspberry play great with the underlying citrus notes, and are enhanced by the smooth, juice-like body.

 

What are the notable characteristics of this beer?

This beer is loaded with fresh fruit flavor and aroma without being overly sweet or cloying. The raspberry is bright and floral, while the cherry is fresh and sweet, adding amazing complexity to the overall flavor profile. The finish lingers pleasantly with hints of raspberry and citrus.

 

What makes you want to drink this beer?

Before the pint is anywhere near your nose, you can already smell the amazing fruit aromas coming from the glass. The color is also incredibly enticing; crimson red and crystal clear with thick, fluffy, pink foam. Wheat beer is also traditionally served in the spring, which can’t come soon enough.

What are some other fruited wheat beers or fruited wits that you really enjoy?

Jackie O’s Razz Wheat is great, as is Schofferhofer Hefeweizen Grapefruit, which is a classic. Hell or High Watermelon from 21st Amendment is also really good, and perfect for warmer weather.

Appearance: Bright red with fluffy pink foam and good clarity

Aroma: Notes of floral raspberry and sweet cherry with hints of citrusy wheat

Taste: Slightly sweet with a mildly tart finish

Mouthfeel: Medium-bodied and smooth with medium carbonation and slight, lingering, fruity sweetness.

Overall: Crimson red with great clarity and fluffy, pink foam, floral raspberry and fresh, sweet cherry burst from this glass in this slightly sweet, full bodied wheat ale.

What foods would pair well with Raspy Cat?

This beer would go great with a spring salad

Ideal glassware for Raspy Cat? Standard shaker pint