Little Sal

◎ Appearance

Little Sal presents a striking dark violet hue with a delicate pink-tinged head that settles into fine lacing. The clarity is translucent rather than bright, revealing the depth of color imparted by both the barrel aging and wild blueberries. The carbonation is moderate and refined, appropriate for a sour ale of this profile.

◌ Aroma

The nose leads with ripe blueberry and toasted oak in equal measure, followed by an earthy undertone that grounds the fruit. Secondary notes of wood tannins and subtle vinous character emerge, suggesting the wild fermentation and careful barrel selection. The overall impression is of a wine-inspired fermentation rather than a traditional hop-forward beer.

◐ Taste

The palate opens juicy and fruit-driven, with blueberry-pie character providing immediate sweetness before a moderate tartness emerges mid-palate. A subtle biscuity Malz note anchors the beer and prevents the fruit from becoming cloying, while the wild cultures add complexity and depth. The interplay between fruit acidity and structured Malz gives the beer both vivacity and substance.

◑ Finish

The finish is long and decidedly dry, with the tartness lingering pleasantly without harshness. The aftertaste leaves a faint oakiness and a clean, mineral-like quality that invites another sip.