At California Wild Ales we specialize in creating small batch sour beers for the San Diego community.  Each week we feature a rotating tap list of 10 sour beers.  Each beer is carefully crafted until the flavor is ready to release.  We rest our beer on whole fruit to  We often add different varieties that you cannot get anywhere else.   Each week we add a new sour beer to the tap list rotation.

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Sangiovese Wine Grape Sour

Introducing our Sangiovese Wild Ale.

The Nebbiolo grape has a deep color violet color and bold tannins.  Despite its tannic structure, this beer’s fruity flavors of tart cherry and red plum are supported by a tea-like flavor.  Sangiovese grapes can be herbaceous with more sour tart cherry and mineral flavor.  We placed these grapes on our golden ale that aged in oak barrels for 12 months.  The beer then undergoes a secondary fermentation on the wine grapes. The wild yeast from the grape skins adds extra funk and flavor.  We love our wine grape sours.  Once you try them, you will immediately know why.

 

5.5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Dynamic Lambic

Dynamic Lambic

ABV – 7.5%

Introducing our California Wild Ales Dynamic Lambic, a true testament to the art of spontaneous fermentation and the result of a remarkable collaboration with our friends at Nickel Brewing.  With the utmost dedication to tradition, we meticulously crafted this lambic using a time-honored grain bill and aged hops.

In search of the perfect environment for fermentation, we embarked on a journey to Julian to visit our friends at Nickle Beer Company.   The cold weather set the stage for a perfect evening under the stars.  Once the brewing process was complete, we allowed nature to work its magic by leaving the beer outside overnight, inviting the natural microflora of Julian to weave its way into our creation.

For an excruciatingly patient three years, this exquisite lambic matured in barrels, developing remarkable depth and character. Now, at long last, we invite you to savor the culmination of this labor of love.

Upon pouring, prepare yourself for a sensory adventure. The first sip greets you with a delightful funkiness, a harmonious dance of wild yeast and bacteria. A tantalizing tartness embraces your taste buds, weaving a path of puckering pleasure. As you explore further, a symphony of bright and earthy flavors unfolds, showcasing the rich tapestry of the Julian microflora.

This American Lambic from California Wild Ales is an exceedingly rare gem, produced in limited quantities. Don’t delay, for missing out on this extraordinary brew would be a regrettable omission. Join us in savoring this remarkable creation that encapsulates the essence of traditional brewing techniques and the vibrant spirit of collaboration. Cheers to an unrivaled taste experience!

 

 

 

7.5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Meyer Lemon Radler

Meyer Lemon Radler – 4.5%ABV

Introducing our Meyer Lemon Radler Sour Beer, a refreshing and zesty brew that will awaken your taste buds with a burst of citrus delight. Crafted with care and passion, this unique beer is a harmonious blend of traditional sour ale and the vibrant essence of Meyer lemons.

As you pour this golden elixir into your glass, a hazy brilliance catches your eye, hinting at the vibrant flavors to come. A fluffy, white head crowns the liquid, releasing a tantalizing aroma that dances with the tangy sweetness of Meyer lemons. Each sip unveils a symphony of flavors, perfectly balanced to create an unforgettable drinking experience.

At first contact, your palate is greeted by a refreshing tartness, awakening your senses with a lively kick. The sourness is tempered by the natural sweetness of the Meyer lemons, resulting in a harmonious interplay of flavors. Waves of citrusy goodness flood your taste buds as notes of juicy lemon peel and pulpy citrus flesh intertwine, creating a delightful tangy symphony.

The mouthfeel is light and effervescent, accentuating the beer’s refreshing character. A subtle malt backbone provides a delicate sweetness that lingers gently, complementing the lively lemon profile. The finish is crisp and clean, leaving you craving another sip of this invigorating elixir.

Our Meyer Lemon Radler Sour Beer is the perfect companion for warm summer days, leisurely afternoons with friends, or whenever you seek a burst of citrus-infused refreshment. Enjoy it chilled and let the vibrant flavors transport you to sun-drenched groves of Meyer lemon trees, immersing you in a sensory journey that is as refreshing as it is invigorating.

Indulge in the marriage of sour ale and Meyer lemons, and discover a beer that will quench your thirst, tantalize your taste buds, and leave you craving more. This extraordinary brew is an ode to the vibrant flavors of summer, encapsulating the essence of Meyer lemons in every sip.

4.5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Sangria: A Flavorful Red Wine Cocktail Sour

Introducing our Sangria Wild Ales.

Our Sangria is a Mixed Fermentation Wild Ale that was first aged in Oak Barrels for an entire year before it was racked onto Cabernet Franc grapes and fresh blood oranges.  The freshness from the yeast on grape skins pairs harmoniously with our house culture.  Giving this wine-like sour a delightful level of funk and sour.

 

 

5.5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Blood Orange Sour Saison

We teamed up with our friends at Border X to create our very first Saison.

Our sour Saison is, brewed with a classic Saison yeast strain, which imparts notes of clove, white pepper, and coriander.  The Saison was barrel-aged with blood oranges for a full year and is then blended with our barrel-aged golden sour.

This beer is currently only available on tap at our Ocean Beach location.  Stop by today and send your tastebuds on a funky adventure.

7% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Let’s F*%#!ng Gose

It’s baseball playoff season so LFG!!!

LFG is a gose-style ale that was aged in red wine barrels for 12 months to allow the beer to produce tart flavors, fruity notes, and a funky character. We then added cracked coriander and a generous amount of large flaky sea salt. This gose-style ale has a lemony aroma, a tart flavor, and the right amount of saltiness to keep you coming back for more.

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Dark Gold Mixed-Fermentation Wild Ale

Introducing DARK GOLD!  

This Decadent Blend of both Golden and Dark Ales allows the brightness of the golden ale shine through while the maltiness of the Dark Sour balances everything out.  This blend plays perfectly adding layer upon layer of depth to create one of our favorite beers to date.  We almost made this a member-only beer…but we thought we would share it during SDBW.

  • 30% – 12 Month Bourbon Barrel-Aged Dark Sour
  • 70% – 12 Month Red Wine Barrel-Aged Golden Ale

We are only releasing (100) 500ml bottles presale online.   This is our very first batch of Dark Gold.  Be the first kid on the block to own this decadent blend of ales.

Pickle SOUR

This crisp and refreshing sour beer is the perfect beverage for someone who is looking to quench their thirst. We took our salty Gose-style beer and added Fresh Cucumber, Dill, Black Peppercorn, & Sea Salt to the beer for secondary fermentation. The end result is a refreshing and pickle-y sour/salty combination that will certainly hit the spot during these hot summer days.

Pickle Sour is deliciously refreshing, with unmistakable fresh dill on the nose and cucumber on taste, followed by a sour pickle finish.   This beer is a wonderful thirst quencher on a hot summer day or the perfect way to recharge after a long day at the beach.   Coming in at 5% ABV …so you can sip on Pickles all day long.  We are beyond excited about this beer…and after one sip you will be too.

If you love Dill Pickles and Sour Beers… then you need Pickle Sour in your life.  You’ll thank us later.

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Passion Fruit Margarita Sour

Passion Fruit Margarita

5% ABV

Step into a world of tropical paradise with our Passionfruit Margarita Sour beer. The hazy golden appearance is a feast for the eyes, while the aromas of ripe passionfruit and fresh lime beckon you closer.

With each sip, you’ll be transported to a sun-soaked beach, where the vibrant flavors of a classic margarita come alive in this sour beer. The bright acidity awakens your taste buds, while the juicy sweetness of the passionfruit brings a tropical twist that lingers on your palate.

Medium-bodied and refreshing, this beer is a perfect companion for lazy afternoons by the pool or gatherings with friends. It pairs exceptionally well with seafood delicacies, adding an extra layer of enjoyment to each bite. And let’s not forget its versatility as a standalone refresher, providing a burst of tropical flavor that invigorates your senses.

Indulge in the captivating fusion of flavors that our Passionfruit Margarita Sour beer offers as it transports you to a blissful oasis of fruity cocktails and endless summer vibes. Embrace the spirit of adventure, relax, and let every sip remind you to savor life’s zest. Cheers to the taste of paradise in every pour!

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Lady in Red – Flanders Ale with Tea

Lady in Red – Flanders Red Ale with Lady Grey Tea

9% ABV

Elevating the artistry of traditional brewing, California Wild Ales proudly presents Lady in Red, a captivating Flanders Red Ale infused with the delicate essence of Lady Grey Tea. With each sip, this enchanting brew reveals a harmonious dance between centuries-old brewing techniques and a modern twist.

Pouring into the glass with a rich, ruby-red hue reminiscent of a stunning sunset, Lady in Red entices the senses from the very first glance. Its luscious foam crown rests elegantly atop the liquid, offering a tantalizing invitation to delve into its complex depths.

As the aromas weave their way through the air, the fragrant bouquet of Lady Grey Tea intertwines with the traditional characteristics of a Flanders Red Ale. The intriguing notes of bergamot orange, black tea, and a touch of lemon zest combine seamlessly with the beer’s inherent profile, creating an alluring tapestry of scents.

With each sip, Lady in Red enchants the palate, unveiling a symphony of flavors. The base Flanders Red Ale reveals its intricate layers of malt complexity, featuring a gentle caramel sweetness and a subtle toasted bread character. Delicately woven into this tapestry of flavors are the elegant nuances of Lady Grey Tea, contributing a graceful herbal quality that perfectly complements the beer’s inherent tartness.

A medium body and a smooth, velvety mouthfeel add to the overall allure of this brew. The artful balance of malt sweetness, gentle acidity, and herbal undertones make Lady in Red a refined and refreshing experience.

Whether sipped on its own or paired with fine cuisine, Lady in Red captivates the senses and transports the drinker to a world where tradition meets innovation.

9% - | $9

Sunkissed: Citrus Infused Hard Yerba Maté Tea

Introducing “SunKissed: The Orange Mojito Hard Yerba Mate Tea”

Embrace the essence of a tropical paradise with SunKissed, a captivating infusion that combines the vibrant flavors of an orange mojito with the invigorating qualities of yerba mate tea. This delightful blend takes you on a sun-kissed journey, where the refreshing zest of oranges, the invigorating mint, and the natural energy of yerba mate converge to create a truly enchanting drinking experience.

As you raise your glass to your lips, the tantalizing aroma of freshly squeezed oranges mingles with the crisp, cooling fragrance of mint. Close your eyes, and you’ll be transported to a sun-drenched beach, where the gentle breeze carries the scents of citrus and herbs.

The first sip of SunKissed unveils a symphony of flavors that dance upon your palate. The bright and juicy orange notes burst forth, accompanied by a refreshing minty breeze that invigorates your senses. The flavors intermingle, creating a harmonious blend that balances tangy sweetness with a revitalizing twist.

Crafted with care, SunKissed features the finest yerba mate leaves, carefully selected for their robust flavor and natural energizing properties. The earthy undertones of yerba mate provide a smooth and grounding base, allowing the vibrant citrus and mint to shine through. This delightful fusion will leave you feeling refreshed, revitalized, and ready to soak up the sun.

Whether you’re seeking a rejuvenating sip to start your day or a tropical twist to unwind in the evening, SunKissed is the perfect companion. With its unique blend of flavors and the natural energy boost of yerba mate, it offers a refreshing escape that transports you to a sun-drenched paradise with every sip.

Savor the radiant flavors of SunKissed, the Orange Mojito Hard Yerba Mate Tea captures the spirit of a tropical getaway. Let its vibrant citrus, cooling mint, and invigorating yerba mate transport you to an oasis of relaxation and enjoyment. Raise your glass, bask in the sun-kissed flavors, and toast to the extraordinary moments that life has to offer. Cheers!

 

5% - 16oz $8

The Pesky Parrot Pale Ale

Pesky Parrot Pale Ale from California Wild Ales is a tribute to the vibrant and colorful community of Ocean Beach, where the loud squawks of parrots are a familiar sound in the early morning. This pale ale is brewed with a blend of high-quality malts and hops, creating a balanced and flavorful beer that captures the essence of the lively and eclectic neighborhood.

Pouring a vibrant golden color, Pesky Parrot Pale Ale releases a bouquet of aromas that include floral and citrus notes, along with a hint of caramel sweetness. On the palate, this beer delivers a medium-bodied mouthfeel that is smooth and crisp, with a perfect balance of hop bitterness and malt sweetness.

The key to Pesky Parrot Pale Ale’s flavor profile is the blend of hops used during brewing. Notes of pine, grapefruit, and orange peel are intertwined with a subtle spiciness, creating a refreshing and satisfying taste that lingers on the palate. The finish is clean and dry, inviting you to take another sip.

Whether you’re starting your day or winding down after a long one, Pesky Parrot Pale Ale is the perfect beer to enjoy with friends and neighbors. Its approachable and easy-drinking nature make it a crowd-pleaser, while its flavorful and balanced profile will satisfy even the most discerning craft beer drinkers. So sit back, relax, and savor the flavors of Pesky Parrot Pale Ale, as you listen to the parrots wake up the neighborhood with their boisterous calls.

5.8% - | $7

Up the Hill Hazy IPA

Up the Hill Hazy IPA from California Wild Ales and Thorn Street Brewing is a tribute to the residents of San Diego’s Ocean Beach neighborhood who live “up the hill” overlooking the beautiful Pacific Ocean. This hazy IPA is brewed with a blend of premium hops, malts, and yeast, creating a sensory experience that captures the essence of the coastal lifestyle.

Up the Hill Hazy IPA pours a hazy golden color with a thick, creamy head that releases a burst of aromas ranging from juicy tropical fruit to piney resin. On the palate, this beer delivers a smooth, medium-bodied mouthfeel that is balanced by a subtle sweetness and a slight bitterness.

What sets Up the Hill Hazy IPA apart is its unique blend of hop flavors. Notes of ripe mango, citrus, and passionfruit are intertwined with a subtle dankness, creating a flavor profile that is both bold and nuanced. The finish is crisp, leaving a pleasantly dry aftertaste that invites you to take another sip.

Whether you’re enjoying a day at the beach or watching the sunset from your hilltop home, Up the Hill Hazy IPA is the perfect beer for any occasion. Its blend of flavors and aromas make it a versatile and approachable beer that craft beer aficionados and newcomers alike can enjoy. So raise a glass to the residents of Ocean Beach and savor the flavors of Up the Hill Hazy IPA.

This mouthwatering hazy IPA is made with Equinox, Citra, and Ambrosia Hops.

6.7% - Hazy IPA | $7

Rainbow Weather – Double Hazy IPA

Rainbow Weather – 8.3% ABV.

Introducing “Rainbow Weather” by California Wild Ales, a Double Hazy IPA that embodies the vibrant spirit of the Golden State. Brewed with love and passion, this beer takes you on a whimsical journey through a kaleidoscope of flavors.

Rainbow Weather pours a luscious, hazy golden hue reminiscent of a radiant California sunset. As you raise the glass to your lips, the aromas of juicy tropical fruits burst forth, enticing your senses with notes of ripe mangoes, succulent pineapples, and tangy citrus. The fragrance is like a bouquet of freshly picked fruits from a sun-drenched orchard.

With each sip, your taste buds are greeted by a harmonious symphony of flavors. The generous hop bill brings forth an explosion of tropical goodness, delivering waves of ripe papaya, sweet tangerine, and zesty grapefruit. A velvety smooth mouthfeel adds to the allure, enveloping your palate in a gentle embrace.

Crafted with meticulous attention to detail, Rainbow Weather showcases a balanced malt backbone that supports the hop-driven character. The combination of pale malts and a touch of wheat provides a subtle biscuity sweetness, creating a solid foundation for the hop flavors to dance upon.

Brewed with love, it embodies the essence of the wild and free California spirit, capturing the boundless energy and kaleidoscopic diversity of the state. Each sip is a celebration of the vibrant flavors and adventurous nature that make California Wild Ales a true pioneer in the craft beer scene.

At California Wild Ales, we believe in creating a welcoming and inclusive environment for everyone. We love and respect everyone in the LGBTQ+ community, and Rainbow Weather stands as a tribute to their strength, resilience, and vibrant presence. It is a reminder that diversity and acceptance are values we hold dear.

Raise a glass of Rainbow Weather and let its radiant hues and exquisite flavors transport you to a place where sunny skies, wild adventures, and a love for brewing collide. Cheers to the magic in every sip and to a world where love knows no boundaries!

 

 

8.3% - Hazy Double IPA | $8

Bike Lane Lager

Our Bike Lane Lager features German Pilsner, malted wheat, and noble hops, including Hallertau Blanc, Magnum, and Saaz. This blend of hops imparts a clean and crisp flavor. Though relatively mild and delicate, Saaz hops impart a distinctly earthy and herbal flavor to the beer that has come to define the Pilsner.

After lagering our beer for nearly five weeks, our Bike Lane Lager was ready for the wild. Finally, what was once only available at our tasting room is now available to enjoy in the comfort of your own home. Our Bike Lane Lager is packaged in 16oz cans and available in four-packs. 

So stop by our Ocean Beach location to enjoy a bright and crisp lager on tap. And pick up a few four-packs while you are there. Otherwise, please keep a lookout on shelves around San Diego for California Wild Ales’ Bike Lane Lager.

5.4% - Wheat Lager | $7 | Michelada $8

War Zone IPA

West Coast-style IPA made with our friends at Thorn St. Brewing.

War Zone IPA  is a bold and fearless beer paying homage to the gritty Ocean Beach neighborhood of San Diego that once earned the nickname “War Zone.”  This West Coast IPA packs a punch with its intense hop aroma and flavor, featuring a complex blend of citrus, pine, and tropical fruit notes that will leave your taste buds buzzing with excitement.

Brewed with the finest ingredients and crafted with passion, “War Zone” IPA is a beer that embodies the rebellious spirit of its namesake neighborhood. Its golden hue is a tribute to the endless sunshine that bathes San Diego’s coast, while its dry finish provides a crisp and refreshing taste that will leave you yearning for more.

Whether you’re a seasoned IPA lover or new to the craft beer scene, War Zone IPA is a must-try. Its bold character and West Coast style make it a perfect pairing for a day at the beach, a night out with friends, or any occasion that calls for a beer that’s not afraid to take risks. So raise a glass to Ocean Beach’s storied past and enjoy a taste of the “War Zone” today!

A dank IPA made with Simcoe, Citra, Centennial, and Amarillo.

7.2% - West Coast IPA | $7
  1. Sangiovese Wine Grape Sour
  2. Dynamic Lambic
  3. Meyer Lemon Radler
  4. Sangria: A Flavorful Red Wine Cocktail Sour
  5. Blood Orange Sour Saison
  6. Let’s F*%#!ng Gose
  7. Dark Gold Mixed-Fermentation Wild Ale
  8. Pickle SOUR
  9. Passion Fruit Margarita Sour
  10. Lady in Red – Flanders Ale with Tea
  11. Sunkissed: Citrus Infused Hard Yerba Maté Tea
  12. The Pesky Parrot Pale Ale
  13. Up the Hill Hazy IPA
  14. Rainbow Weather – Double Hazy IPA
  15. Bike Lane Lager
  16. War Zone IPA
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Spicy Blueberry

We started with our Carlsbad Blueberry as the base and added some spice to the mix with some homegrown Jalapeños.

Our Spicy Blueberry has a tannic, earthy, wine-like characteristic with sweetness from the blueberries and some heat from the jalepeńos.  Spicy Blueberry is refreshing with a spicy pepper on the nose followed by deep port wine flavor.   This beer is has a bright acidity that is perfectly balanced by the heat of the jalepeño and a dash of sea salt..   Coming in at 5% ABV …leaving you free to enjoy your day.

 

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Dragonfruit

5% - Golden sour with Dragonfruit galore

Raspberry Wild Ale

Introducing our Raspberry Wild Ale!

.. super small batch…get it while it lasts.

This beer is currently only available on tap at our Ocean Beach location.  Stop by today and send your tastebuds on a tropical adventure.

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

OB Prickly Pear Wild Ale

Local Prickly Pear hand-picked in Ocean Beach, San Diego leads the charge on this mouthwatering wild ale. It’s sweet like candy with a beautiful, bright orange color and balanced acidity, a bottle that you’ll immediately want more of.

Brewed with organic prickly pear, a cactus found in our San Diego landscape, this tart yet slightly sweet wild ale has a bright, fruity flavor and floral aroma.  A touch of Malden Sea Salt on the backend helps to keep this beer balanced.

These prickly pears are grown right in Ocean Beach and served in the tasting room right down the street.  Talk about hyper-local!

Once this is gone … you will have to wait a full year for its return.

Barrel-Aged 12 Months | Prickly Pear Wild Ale | 500ml | 5% ABV

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8

Meyer Lemon Wild Ale

When life hands you Meyer Lemons… Make Beer!

We barrel-aged our golden sour for 12 months before we racked it onto fresh local Meyer Lemons from Escondido, CA. This beer is exploding with the sweet citrus flavor of the Meyer Lemon. The result is a deliciously tart wild ale perfect for the summer months.  We absolutely love using fresh local citrus in our beer.  There is just something so gratifying about knowing where your fruit comes from.  Each lemon was handpicked at its peak of ripeness to ensure the sweetest flavor.

This beer has been bottle conditioned for over 9 months to let the carbonation reach its peak.  Crack open a bottle of Meyer Lemon on a hot day and see why this is the Best Summer Beer of 2020!

We only have (80) 500ml bottles, so make sure to reserve your bottles today.  Citrus Sours Rule!

Pickup and Local Delivery Only

(Limit 3 per customer)

5% - | 5oz $4 | 10oz $8
  1. Spicy Blueberry
  2. Dragonfruit
  3. Raspberry Wild Ale
  4. OB Prickly Pear Wild Ale
  5. Meyer Lemon Wild Ale