Fat Tire Belgian White

Fat Tire Belgian White is a good example of the Belgian Wit (Cat 24A in the 2015 BJCP Guidelines). A Wit is a perfect Summer ale if you are looking for a refreshing light yet flavorful brew that is not a hop bomb.  Unfortunately, this example has a few flaws that impact these qualities. 

The nose has a solid hit of coriander along with other floral character – perhaps lavender?  Banana esters from the yeast along with citrus notes of lemon and orange are also present behind this.  There is also a touch of wheat cereal aroma, as would be expected for this style.   This moderately carbonated brew pours a hazy light golden color with a lingering solid white head with lacing.  It is a very attractive Wit!

The flavor mirrors the aroma quite well.  Coriander and banana come through up front followed by a wheat bite in the middle and finish.  A light peppery character is present alongside the wheat giving a certain level of complexity to the flavor.  However, there is also a strong distracting sweetness that also comes through in the middle and lasts well into the finish, delivering a flabbiness which impacts the refreshing qualities of this brew.  There is no acid bite present to help balance out this sweetness.  The combination of the wheat character and the sweetness helps to deliver a medium full body. 

Overall, while the spicing of this Wit is appreciated and is quite interesting, the residual sweetness that comes through tends to dominate the package.  Cheers and enjoy!