BROOKLYN KIWI PLAYHOUSE SOUR 25oz ENKELE FLES

I was a little skeptical of the red wine barrel aging, but it works beautifully here — the kiwi is bright and the carbonation is lively enough to keep it crisp. The 7.5% ABV is completely hidden behind the smooth, tropical finish.

The kiwi flavor is surprisingly forward, not buried like I feared, and the red wine barrel aging gives it a mellow, dry finish that balances the 7.5% ABV. I’ve had a few sour ales that feel too sharp, but this one stays smooth even with the fizzy, medium body.

The lively carbonation really makes the kiwi flavor pop without being harsh. Smooth enough to enjoy on its own, with that tropical fruit lingering nicely in the finish. Exactly what I wanted from a sour.