Peak Organic Weiss Principal Ale

Peak Organic Brewing Company (Portland, ME) prides themselves on using organic (duh) and local ingredients to brew a high quality product. I have long been a fan of their beers, but yet to discuss any on Draft Notes. I came across one of their beers which I was unfamiliar with and also a fairly unique style, so today I will be taking a look at Peak Organic Weiss Principal Ale.

Weiss Principal is described on the bottle as an imperial German style Hefe-Weisse: The international love child of a Hefe-Weisse and an American Double IPA. Beer Advocate lists this ale as a Weizenbock and Rate Beer slides it in with the American Strong Ales (huh?). One thing they all do agree on is the fact that it is a hybrid mixing a Hefe-Weisse with an imperial IPA. Two styles I enjoy, but am yet to mix.

The serving I will be reviewing is from a 22oz bottle poured into a tulip. I am anticipating some IPA like aromas, so sided with the IPA glass over a tall hefeweizen glass. Pour it out…

Appearance is a rich honey colored body with a lingering off-white head.

Aromas I detect are dominated by tropical fruits – pineapple, mango, lychee, and banana stand out.

Taste continues with the tropical theme. I pick up pineapple and mango. Cloves of the hefe are in there, then a slight booze finish with a bitter bite.

Mouth feel consists of a medium body, high carbonation, leaving a syrupy film.

Overall, I am not totally impressed, but far from disappointed with this beer. Little too fruity and sweet for my taste, but it is what it says it is… A DIPA dressed in a Hefe’s clothing. A really sweet DIPA that is. I wish the piney hops would have pushed through a little more to align with my favorite IPAs.

Instead of this one, I recommend checking out Peak’s seasonal ales. They all seem to be very solid and sessionable, especially the Summer. Additionally, dive into their Fresh Cut Pilsener if you run across it at your local bar or store.

Learn more about Peak Organic here: http://www.peakbrewing.com/ . You will note that Weiss Principal is not listed as one of their beers, so I have to assume it is discontinued or a special release.