The Bright White Ale (formerly named the Winter White Ale) is a Belgian-style Witbier that’s brewed by Bell’s Brewery, Inc. For the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a wheat beer glass from a 12 oz. bottle.
Packaging art for the Bright White Ale by Bell’s Brewery, Inc.
What You Need to Know
The Bright White Ale was formerly known as the Winter White Ale but it’s otherwise the same Witbier that it’s always been since 2003. Their classic wheat beer is still fermented with a Belgian yeast strain that yields clove and fruity aromas without the use of any spices. So how was it? Let’s get to the review.
Appearance
The ale pours a hazy golden yellow and is topped by a generous stack of puffy white foam that shows good retention. A smattering of residue clings to the glass.
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Aroma
The yeasty aroma adds fruity banana, spiced with clove.
Flavor
The palate begins with clove and banana atop a creamy wheat base. Vanilla appears for a moment and is quickly followed by a lingering but light tartness of lemon.
Label art for the Bright White Ale by Bell’s Brewery, Inc.
Mouthfeel
Its feel is smooth and creamy with a medium-light body and moderate carbonation. Finishes somewhat dryly.
Overall
The Bright White Ale looks great and its aroma is quite pleasant. The palate is delightful but its feel isn’t quite as effervescent as preferred. However, this bottle sat on a store shelf for a couple of months before I consumed it and perhaps some of the carbonation has dissipated. Regardless, this light, easy-drinking brew makes for a nice alternative to the abundance of warmers, stouts, and barrel-aged brews that are prevalent this time of year.
Recommended Pairings
Bell’s Brewery recommends the following food pairings with their Winter White Ale: meats of mussels, ham, sushi; salads; mont des cats cheese; sweets of fruit pies, banana, plum, blueberries, Bananas Foster ice cream.
