Introduction

In the ever-evolving world of craft beer, where boundaries are continuously pushed, California Wild Ales stands as a prime example of unwavering dedication to innovation. Their latest creation, “I’m Kind of a Big Dill,” a barrel-aged pickle sour, embodies their commitment to pushing the flavor envelope. This extraordinary brew combines hand-picked cucumbers, fresh dill, peppercorns, sea salt, and a hint of garlic to deliver a unique sensory experience. With only a single keg in existence and a mere 60 bottles available for sale, this limited-time offering is a rare gem that promises a memorable tasting adventure.

The Pickle Sour Inspiration

The genesis of “I’m Kind of a Big Dill” can be traced back to the passion of California Wild Ales’ owner, Bill DeWitt. His love for pickles and gardening merged into an inspired vision. Bill DeWitt’s backyard garden was the source of the cucumbers and dill that infuse this beer with a remarkable freshness. It’s a testament to the brewery’s dedication to using locally sourced ingredients and a nod to the intimate, hands-on approach taken by the team at California Wild Ales.  Wild Ales. This brew pays homage to the tangy, briny essence of pickles. It’s a treat for those who savor the unique and bold flavors that pickles provide.

The Ingredients

To craft this extraordinary experience, California Wild Ales meticulously selected a combination of ingredients that epitomize the essence of pickles. Hand-picked cucumbers contribute their fresh, vibrant character to the brew. The inclusion of dill, peppercorns, sea salt, and a hint of garlic adds layers of depth and complexity to the flavor profile. These ingredients were carefully chosen to ensure a harmonious balance that would captivate the senses and leave a lasting impression.

The Aging Process

What truly sets “I’m Kind of a Big Dill” apart is the meticulous barrel aging process. This beer is aged in oak barrels with utmost care and precision, allowing it to absorb the subtle nuances of the wood. This aging process infuses the brew with an additional layer of complexity and depth, elevating it to a level of craftsmanship that is unparalleled.

The Limited Availability

“I’m Kind of a Big Dill” is not just a beer; it’s a small-batch masterpiece. With only one keg in existence, there’s no room for error. The brewery has made available a mere 60 bottles for sale, making this brew a true rarity. Once this keg is emptied, aficionados will have to wait until the following year for another opportunity to savor the magic of “I’m Kind of a Big Dill.” Thus, ensure that you become one of the fortunate few to experience this unique creation.

The Tasting Experience

This pickle sour boasts an ABV of 5%, making it an approachable, easy-drinking choice for those who appreciate a well-balanced sour beer. When it graces your palate, “I’m Kind of a Big Dill” reveals a harmonious blend of flavors. The refreshing cucumber and dill take center stage, with a subtle hint of garlic and a gentle kick of peppercorns following closely. The sea salt adds the finishing touch, enhancing the overall complexity and delivering a refreshing, tangy, and briny experience that is both satisfying and thirst-quenching.

Beyond the obvious, “I’m Kind of a Big Dill” offers a tasting journey that takes you through various layers of sensory delight. The cucumber’s crispness combines with dill’s herbal notes to create an initial burst of freshness. As the flavors unfold, the subtle hint of garlic adds a savory twist that harmonizes beautifully with the peppercorn’s gentle spiciness. Finally, the sea salt ties everything together, leaving a lingering, oceanic kiss on your taste buds.

In Conclusion

“I’m Kind of a Big Dill” by California Wild Ales is not just a limited-time offering; it’s a must-try for any beer enthusiast seeking a truly exceptional and distinctive tasting experience. The unique combination of hand-picked cucumbers, fresh dill, peppercorns, sea salt, and just a touch of garlic creates an unforgettable flavor profile that encapsulates the very essence of pickles in a barrel-aged sour ale.

With only one keg and 60 bottles available, this is an opportunity you absolutely cannot afford to miss. So, secure your bottle while you can and savor this extraordinary creation before it vanishes until the next year. California Wild Ales deserves applause for pushing the boundaries of craft beer and for delivering a beer experience that’s truly “kind of a big dill.” This limited-time delight is a testament to the art of brewing and an exploration of flavors that leaves an indelible mark on your palate, offering a glimpse into the imaginative and innovative world of craft brewing.

California Wild Ales Set to Wow Attendees at San Diego Beer Week’s In-Person and Virtual Festivities

San Diego Beer Week, a weeklong celebration of the craft brewing scene, is about to take the city by storm once again. This annual event, which kicks off with a virtual toast on Friday, November 3, is a testament to San Diego’s reputation as one of America’s craft beer capitals. With a lineup of events spanning the county, it’s a time when beer enthusiasts come together to revel in the finest brews and bubbly delights.

A Week of Boozy Bliss

From November 3 to November 12, 2023, San Diego Beer Week promises an array of exciting events, from brewery visits and bar tastings to restaurant pairings and more. The festivities kick off with a countywide virtual toast at 7 p.m. on November 3, where participants can join in from their favorite local brewery and share the experience on social media using the hashtags #SDBEER, #SDBEERWEEK, and #SDBW.

Meet the Breweries

One highlight of this year’s San Diego Beer Week is the stellar lineup of breweries participating in the celebration. Among them is the renowned California Wild Ales, eager to share their unique take on craft brewing with attendees. This event offers an exceptional opportunity for beer enthusiasts to explore the diverse flavors and styles that define the San Diego craft beer scene.

California Wild Ales: Pushing the Boundaries

California Wild Ales is known for its groundbreaking approach to brewing, specializing in wild and mixed-fermentation ales. They’ve gained recognition for their innovative creations, often incorporating locally sourced and unconventional ingredients, setting them apart in the world of craft beer.

Bill DeWitt, co-founder of California Wild Ales, expressed his excitement about the event, saying, “We’re thrilled to be part of San Diego Beer Week once again. This event is a fantastic opportunity for us to connect with fellow beer enthusiasts and share our passion for pushing the boundaries of traditional brewing. We can’t wait to showcase our innovative and flavorful wild ales to the San Diego community and beyond.”

Tasting the Unconventional

As part of San Diego Beer Week, California Wild Ales is set to offer an impressive selection of their most intriguing wild ales. Attendees can look forward to barrel-aged sours, fruited goses, and experimental brews that embody the essence of California’s unique terroir.

Beyond the Main Event

In addition to their presence at the main event, California Wild Ales will host special events and tastings throughout the week. These intimate experiences provide a unique look into their brewing process and philosophy, giving attendees a chance to connect with the creators behind the beer.

Join the Celebration

Beer lovers and fans alike are encouraged to join the celebration of America’s finest independent craft brewers during San Diego Beer Week, taking place from November 3 to November 12, 2023. To participate in the kickoff toast and subsequent events, use the dedicated hashtags and celebrate the rich tapestry of flavors and creativity brewed into each pint during this spectacular weeklong event.

And So It BeGins…

I am thrilled to share some exciting news from California Wild Ales. We’re about to embark on a captivating journey with freshly emptied gin barrels generously provided by our good friends at Cutwater Spirits. Our team is taking our beloved Spelt Saison base and infusing it with the unique and tantalizing flavors that only gin barrels can offer.

This project is nothing short of magical as we watch our Spelt Saison undergo a remarkable transformation. It will ferment and mature in these gin-soaked barrels for a minimum of 9 months before we release it to our eager fans. This extended aging period represents our unwavering commitment to crafting exceptional and distinctive brews that push the boundaries of traditional brewing.

The Gin Barrel Influence: A Symphony of Flavors

The decision to age our Spelt Saison in gin barrels is a match made in craft beer heaven. Gin barrels are renowned for imparting a spectrum of intriguing and delightful flavors. Some of the vital flavor elements we expect these barrels to contribute to our Spelt Saison include:

1. Botanical Infusion: Gin barrels carry the botanical bouquet used in gin production, including juniper berries, coriander, and citrus peels. As our Saison rests in the barrels, it will absorb the essence of these botanicals, creating a harmonious interplay of herbal and citrus notes.
2. Oak and Vanilla: Like any wooden barrel, gin barrels bring a hint of oakiness and vanilla to the party. The aging process allows the beer to take on these subtle, creamy undertones, adding depth and complexity to the final product.
3. Subtle Juniper Spice: Juniper is the heart and soul of gin and carries a unique aromatic and slightly spicy quality. As our Saison mingles with the gin-soaked wood, it’s expected to pick up a whisper of juniper, which could add an intriguing twist to the beer’s profile.
4. A Touch of Dryness: Gin barrels are known for leaving a touch of dryness on the palate, which could complement the Spelt Saison’s natural effervescence, resulting in a well-balanced and refreshing experience.

These flavors will bring a new level of complexity to our Spelt Saison and create a memorable drinking experience for those fortunate enough to savor it.

A Long-Awaited Journey

For us at California Wild Ales, the decision to age our Spelt Saison in gin barrels has been a long-cherished dream. Ever since we created our Spelt Saison recipe, we’ve been eager to experiment with different barrel-aging techniques, and gin barrels seemed like the perfect next step. The anticipation has been building, and we can’t wait to see how this marriage of flavors unfolds.

This particular release is part of a larger project that we intend to carry on in the future. We are committed to producing and releasing Saisons with increasing regularity, exploring different flavors, and pushing the boundaries of what barrel aging can bring to our beers. Gin Barrel Saisons are just one of the many exciting endeavors we have in store for our fans.

In a world where craft breweries continue redefining beer possibilities, California Wild Ales stands at the forefront of innovation and creativity. Our dedication to experimenting with unique barrel-aging techniques like gin barrels is a testament to our unwavering commitment to producing exceptional brews that captivate the senses and take beer enthusiasts on a flavorful journey. So, keep your eyes peeled and your taste buds ready for California Wild Ales’ Gin Barrel Saison, a craft beer experience that’s sure to be nothing short of extraordinary.