Is Brewmeister Snake Venom actually beer?
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and analyze a wide variety of beers from around the world. Brewmeister Snake Venom is a unique and intriguing brew that has gained quite a reputation for being the strongest beer in the world. But the question remains, is it actually beer?
To answer this question, we need to delve into the brewing process of Snake Venom. This beer is brewed in Moray, Scotland, using smoked, peated malt. This type of malt imparts a distinct smoky flavor to the beer, adding complexity to its profile. The use of peated malt is common in Scottish whisky production, which adds an interesting connection between the two beloved beverages.
What sets Snake Venom apart from other beers is the use of two varieties of yeast – one beer yeast and one Champagne yeast. This combination of yeasts adds a unique twist to the fermentation process and contributes to the beer's high alcohol content. It is worth noting that Champagne yeast is known for its ability to tolerate high alcohol levels, which is crucial in a beer that aims to push the boundaries of strength.
Now, let's address the elephant in the room – the alcohol content. Snake Venom boasts an astonishing 67.5% ABV (alcohol by volume), which is significantly higher than your average beer. This level of alcohol is more commonly associated with spirits like whisky, rum, or vodka. Such a high alcohol content is achieved through careful fermentation and conditioning techniques, as well as the use of high-quality ingredients.
But does the high alcohol content alone determine whether Snake Venom is truly beer? The answer lies in the definition of beer itself. Beer is a fermented beverage made from malted grains, water, hops, and yeast. While Snake Venom does contain malted grains and yeast, it deviates from traditional beer styles in terms of its alcohol content and brewing techniques.
In my opinion, Brewmeister Snake Venom can be considered a beer, albeit an extreme one. Its unique brewing process, use of smoked malt, and combination of yeasts set it apart from your typical beer, but it still falls within the broad category of fermented malt beverages. It pushes the boundaries of what we traditionally think of as beer, challenging our preconceived notions and expanding the possibilities of what can be achieved in brewing.
Personal experiences and situations I have encountered in the craft beer industry have shown me that innovation and experimentation are key drivers of progress. Breweries are constantly pushing the limits, exploring new flavors, and challenging the status quo. Snake Venom is a prime example of this spirit of exploration, taking beer to new heights in terms of both alcohol content and flavor complexity.
While Brewmeister Snake Venom may not fit the mold of your average beer, it can still be considered a beer due to its use of malted grains and yeast. Its extreme alcohol content and unconventional brewing techniques make it a unique and fascinating brew that pushes the boundaries of what we typically associate with beer. Whether you choose to try it or not, Snake Venom is undoubtedly an intriguing addition to the world of craft beer.