Boulevard Tank 7 is a truly exceptional beer that falls into the category of a traditional Belgian-style farmhouse ale. Now, let me take you on a journey to explore the intricate details and flavors that make this beer so special.
First and foremost, let's talk about the style itself – the Belgian-style farmhouse ale. This style is known for its complex and unique characteristics, and Tank 7 is no exception. It is brewed with a blend of malted barley, wheat, and a touch of oats, which gives it a solid backbone and a smooth, slightly creamy mouthfeel.
One of the standout features of Tank 7 is its yeast strain. Belgian-style farmhouse ales are typically fermented with a specific type of yeast that imparts distinctive flavors and aromas. In the case of Tank 7, Boulevard Brewery utilizes their house strain, which adds a delightful mix of fruity esters and spicy phenols. These flavors can range from notes of citrus, tropical fruits, and stone fruits to peppery, clove-like spices. The yeast also contributes to the beer's slightly hazy appearance, adding to its rustic charm.
Moving on to the flavor profile, Tank 7 offers a beautifully balanced combination of fruity sweetness, spicy notes, and a refreshing hop bitterness. The malt character provides a subtle sweetness that complements the fruity esters from the yeast. This sweetness is then counterbalanced by a moderate hop bitterness, which adds a touch of citrus and floral flavors to the mix.
In terms of aroma, Tank 7 delights the senses with a bouquet of fruity and floral notes. As soon as you bring the glass to your nose, you may be greeted with aromas of ripe tropical fruits, such as pineapple and mango, along with hints of citrus and a touch of floral character. These aromas are a result of the yeast's interaction with the malt and hops during fermentation.
Now, let's talk about the name itself – Tank 7. The story behind it is quite intriguing. Legend has it that during the early days of Boulevard Brewery, the brewers noticed something special about their seventh fermenter, which they affectionately named Tank 7. They found that the perfect combination of elements came together in this tank, resulting in a truly exceptional beer. It's almost as if fate itself played a hand in the creation of this brew.
In my personal experience as a sommelier and brewer, I have had the pleasure of enjoying Boulevard Tank 7 on numerous occasions. Each time, I am reminded of why this beer is held in such high regard. Its complex flavors, balanced profile, and unique characteristics make it a standout in the world of Belgian-style farmhouse ales.
To summarize, Boulevard Tank 7 is a Belgian-style farmhouse ale that showcases a harmonious blend of fruity esters, spicy phenols, and a refreshing hop bitterness. Its distinctive yeast strain, balanced flavor profile, and intriguing backstory make it a beer worth seeking out and savoring. So, if you're a fan of complex and flavorful brews, I highly recommend giving Tank 7 a try.