Raspberry Sundae is an American Blonde Ale that’s collaboratively brewed by Sierra Nevada Brewing Co. and The Bruery. For the purposes of this craft beer review, the ale was served in a pilsener glass.
Appearance
This blonde isn’t so blonde as it pours a crystal clear, pinkish copper. It’s capped by a thin head of bubbly white froth that persists briefly. Patches of lace cling to the glass.
Aroma
Aroma is sugary sweet with a scent of vanilla.
Flavor
That sugary scent transfers to a palate that’s further sweetened by dark chocolate, shifts to a tangy raspberry, and finishes with a lingering sweetness from the lactose. Bitterness is subdued with a light balance of Magnum hops.
Mouthfeel
Lactose contributes to a mouthfeel that’s smooth and creamy. As expected of the style, the body is light and amply carbonated.
Overall
Sierra Nevada and The Bruery have crafted a beer that’s part blonde, part fruit, and part dessert. It’s likely that the Raspberry Sundae will be too sweet for some and while I would typically agree, I really enjoyed the direction behind this brew. And considering the concept behind this ale, their execution is superb.