Spruce has been used as a flavoring ingredient in various beer styles, adding a unique and refreshing twist to the brew. One notable example is Alba Scots Pine Ale, a Scottish beer brewed with spruce tips. This beer incorporates the flavors and aromas of pine and citrus from the spruce, resulting in a complex and flavorful profile.
Another brewery that has experimented with spruce in their beer is the Alaskan Brewing Company. Their Winter Ale features spruce tips harvested in the spring, which are then added during the brewing process. This imparts a subtle spruce flavor and aroma, complemented by hints of caramel and spice. The use of spruce in this beer adds an interesting seasonal touch, making it a popular choice during the winter months.
Beau's Brewery has also crafted a beer called Spruce Moose Pale Ale, which showcases the distinct character of spruce. This beer combines the bitterness and citrus notes of traditional pale ales with the resinous and earthy qualities of spruce. The result is a balanced and flavorful beer that offers a unique twist on a classic style.
Yards Brewing Company's Poor Richard's Tavern Spruce is another example of a beer brewed with spruce. Inspired by Benjamin Franklin's historical spruce beer recipe, this brew incorporates molasses, spruce tips, and other traditional ingredients. The spruce adds a distinct herbal and piney character to the beer, creating a truly unique and historical drinking experience.
In my personal experience as a brewer, I have utilized spruce in a few experimental batches. I found that the spruce tips contribute a delightful aroma and flavor, reminiscent of fresh pine forests. The resinous qualities of spruce can add complexity to a beer, particularly when paired with hop bitterness or other herbal ingredients.
When brewing with spruce, it is important to harvest the tips at the right time to capture their optimal flavors and aromas. Additionally, the amount of spruce used should be carefully measured to avoid overpowering the beer with a strong piney taste. Balancing the spruce with other ingredients is key to creating a well-rounded and enjoyable brew.
Beers brewed with spruce offer a unique and adventurous drinking experience. The addition of spruce can elevate the flavor profile of a beer, adding a refreshing and distinctive twist. Whether it's a Scottish ale, a winter seasonal, or a pale ale, spruce can bring a touch of nature and complexity to the world of beer.