As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Sour Monkey does indeed taste like beer, albeit with a unique twist. This particular brew takes the beloved flavors of our Golden Monkey beer and adds a tastefully tart element to create a distinctively sour profile.
The first thing you'll notice when tasting Sour Monkey is its sharp, citrus-laden tang. This tanginess sets it apart from the sweeter, fruitier essence of the original Golden Monkey. It adds a refreshing and zesty quality to the beer, making it a refreshing choice for those who enjoy a more tangy and sour flavor profile.
However, it's important to note that while Sour Monkey has a pronounced sourness, it still retains the fundamental characteristics of a beer. It has a malty backbone and a slight hop bitterness that balances out the tartness. This combination of flavors creates a complex and well-rounded taste experience.
In terms of mouthfeel, Sour Monkey tends to have a lighter body compared to some other beer styles. The sourness can give it a crisp and effervescent quality, making it quite refreshing and easy to drink.
When it comes to pairings, Sour Monkey's sourness makes it a versatile beer that can be enjoyed with a variety of dishes. It pairs particularly well with salads, as the tartness can help cut through the richness of dressings or toppings. It also complements peppery style cheeses such as Monterey or Pepper Jack, as the tangy flavors can balance out the spice. For those who enjoy more pungent cheeses, Sour Monkey can be a great match for cheeses like Gorgonzola or Limburger, as the sourness can help cut through the strong flavors.
Sour Monkey offers a unique twist on the traditional beer experience. Its sourness sets it apart from other styles, but it still maintains the essence of a beer with its maltiness and hop bitterness. Whether enjoyed on its own or paired with food, Sour Monkey provides a refreshing and tangy taste that beer enthusiasts can appreciate.