Review - Frankenmuth Brewery, 150th Anniversary Lager

It's well known amongst my family and friends that I welcome the gift of beer for any occasion. Christmas? Birthday? Tuesday? Gimmie' some beer. That said, I received a particularly special bottle from my sister for my birthday last year, and considering the unique nature of this beer, I would like to share with you my tasting notes for the first ever MI Brew beer review! (Hey, that rhymes...)

Frankenmuth Dark 150th Anniversary Lager

Style: Munich Dunkel Lager

ABV: 6%, IBU: 32

Serving type: Bottle

Availability: Limited (single batch)

This beer was brewed in limited quantities, with only 1,862 bottles filled to represent the year that Frankemuth Brewery opened its doors here in Michigan. My particular bottle is #0242, and has been registered with Frakenmuth Brewery. As described on the back label, some of the original Frankenmuth Dark first brewed back in the 1940's (and since kept under lock and key) was added to this batch to carry on the lineage of this historic beer.

Appearance:

Pours a deep chestnut brown, almost black in the glass. Strong carbonation. Fizzy white head dissipates quickly.

Aroma:

Fruity, grape juice, slight caramel.

Taste:

Tart. Sharp bite up front. Bright fruitiness - grape juice, crisp pear. Strong sour finish, with slight biscuit aftertaste.

Mouthfeel:

Thin, with a dry finish.

Overall:

While I fear no beer, I'll admit sours are not my strong suit.  But once accustomed to the pucker-power of this limited offering, it's quite enjoyable. I imagine some of the original brew that was added to this anniversary batch lent some of that tart fruitiness, and it's fun to imagine that you're drinking a little piece of Michigan history.  Big thanks to my sister Stephanie for gifting me this unique treat.