The Lighthouse Brewing Company of Victoria, BC has produced the Rhubie Rhubarb Ale. Brewed with Pilsner Malt, flaked wheat, hops (unspecified), Belgian Wheat Ale Yeast and organic Fraser Valley rhubarb this is meant to be a refreshing summer beer.
It has the look of a Pilsner, clear and straw yellow with a loose, white head. This just screams refreshing summer drink. The carbonation flows up beautifully, reinforcing the summery feel.
The malt aromas come through clear but light, giving it a Pilsner scent with some hints of wheat beer. Just a hint of sweetness on the nose and a bit of Belgian funkiness and just a hint of rhubarb at the end.
The flavours are light as a cloud and balanced beautifully. The rhubarb, Pilsner Malt and Belgian yeast all come to the fore ba using a play on tart, sweet and funky. The slight hops bitterness backs up the rhubarb and lets the tartness shine through a bit. The creamy mouthfeel reminds me of really good ice cream with a light tickle of champagne-fine carbonation on the back of the tongue.
This is a great, light summer beer that should be enjoyed on a sunny patio with a cobbler.