Cascade Brewing Primordial Noir

Bourbon Barrl Aged Imperial Red Ale
with Cherries and Spices (NW Sour)

10.5% ABV
Beer Advocate - 4.1/5
Untappd - 4.2/5

28B. Mixed-Fermentation Sour Beer

American Wild Ales are beers that are introduced to "wild" yeast or bacteria, such as Brettanomyces, Pediococcus, or Lactobacillus. This introduction may occur from oak barrels that have been previously inoculated, pitching into the beer, or gained from various "sour mash" techniques. Regardless of the method, these yeast and/or bacteria leave a mark that should be noticeable to strong, and often contribute a sour and/or funky, wild note. Mixed-fermentation examples will display a range of aromatics, rather than a single dominant character.

Purchased at Market of Choice

I had been eyeing this particular brew for awhile now. I mean, what's not to like about the appearance and description? A blending of Imperial Red Ales that have been aged in Bourbon Barrels and Wine Barrels sounds delicious to me. The fact it has Cherries and Spices makes it even better. On top of all that, it's a sour?!? Yes please! Not to forget the ABV coming in at 10.5%. All the makings for an unforgettable brew. Now on to the review!

Aroma: I definitely detect the cherry. It has a nice sourness to the smell (some sours remind me of vomit, this does not). Small trace of bourbon in the back with a mingling of spices (so says the missus, I didn't detect spices).   8

Appearance: A nice deep mahogany with very little head. Has decent lacing. Beautiful, almost brings a tear to my eye. Not really, but still.   8

Flavor: Wow! The complexity is astounding. Has a nice sourness leading off that ventures into a complex co-mingling of a savory red wine (reminds of Marachel Foch), cherry and a subtle touch of bourbon. The spices are there but not coming through a whole lot. 9

Mouthfeel: Low carbonation and feels like drinking a fine wine. I expected as much. 8

Overall: The missus scrunches here nose..."smells savory" she says. Takes a drink, "bleh! No wonder! It's a sour!" Let's just say sours are not her favorite. But I like them...I like them a lot. Especially this one. Cascade does a masterful job of creating a complex brew for your enjoyment. If you like sours, I highly recommend this one. The complexities will delight the senses that makes the price of the brew (about $13) well worth it.  8.25

Matt's mark: 4.13/5