Lost Coast Watermelon Wheat

On draft at the Lost Coast Brewery. I guess this was their "strange brew" and brought back for this occasion. Hazy amber, and small pub style head and light lacing. Nose of, well, watermelon, and a hint of wheat. Somewhat light and fizzy mouthfeel. Not much else going on. Drinkable.

(Draft: Lost Coast Brewery & Cafe) It may look the same as their Harvest Wheat, but I can smell the watermelon from two feet away. Bringing the glass close to my nose, wow, the fruity aroma is very strong, and though it smells like ripe watermelon, there’s a hint of canteloupe as well. Can’t say I smell any wheat though, which is okay for this beer since it’s all about the watermelon. I’m less excited by the flavor however. The early dominance of the watermelon is unmistakable, with the wheat flavor joining in shortly thereafter, but the light bitterness in the finish tends to combat the watermelon as it subsides. Still, the watermelon remains on the palate for as long as it takes to take the next sip. Very light body, and fairly watery overall, with excellent carbonation levels. Cloudy golden color, topped by a small white head that deposits plenty of patchy lace. Some of the watermelon beers I’ve had in the past were very mild, the watermelon barely detectable, but with this beer, it’s most definitely front and center, thus letting you see what a watermelon beer really tastes like. It’s interesting, but I guess not my thing.

Clouded amber appearance, strong watermelon aroma. Watermelon instantly noticeable on the palate, but grainy wheat shows through too. Fruit flavor is impressive and original but does not dominate.