Copper-hued with an extremely clean white head, this beer plays mind tricks from the aroma to the flavor. Subdued raspberry tartness mixes with blood orange notes and alcohol warmth in the bouquet; nothing hints at what’s to come. A caramel malt base with raisin accents lays down first, then a raspberry tsunami steamrolls the tongue, flaming hot and acidic as it dives deep into the chest. An alcohol glow and dark fruits rise up in the aftermath. Perhaps the most surprising thing about this 18 percent-ABV brew is that you don’t see it coming in the aroma, yet after it’s gone, this monster’s heavy carbonation ends each sip cleanly.
