This week I’ll take a break from heavily hopped beers and focus on an American Wheat Ale instead. Very new to the market, first batches brewed in January, Flesk Brewing bombers have begun arriving on shelves, although scarce at the moment. Owned by brothers James and William O’Brien, Flesk is working in a less than 1000 square foot space on a 1 BBL system located in Lombard. James is currently the head brewer of Lunar Brewing out of Villa Park. Both brothers attended Siebel Institute of Brewing Technology in Chicago, and James also received a WBA International Diploma in Brewing Technology in Munich, Germany. Experience resides in their background. Let’s see how their Feral Cat turned out.
I poured aggressively into a nonic pint glass and formed a one finger creamy white head with moderate retention and light lacing. Feral Cat’s color is straw in hue, with a slight haze that just barely makes it difficult to see through. Little to no sediment left on the bottom of the bottle, natural filtration looks to be a strong suit for the O’Brien brothers. Immediate aromas of bubble gum shined, just like Bazooka. Sweet wheat, fresh grass, mild honey, peach, honeydew, and cantaloupe notes also graced my nose. Citrus bitterness immediately takes form in the mouth, staying throughout the finish. Midway, melon sweetness trickles in, accented by grassy esters. Finish is zesty and bitter, drying out the fruity sweetness. Refreshing is an understatement.
Feral Cat would be a perfect thirst quencher after my bike commute home, especially on warmer days. Let’s hope Flesk makes this readily available by summer time, it’d be a perfect companion to the blistering sun. It may be difficult to track down some of their beers, especially living in Chicago, but keep an eye on their Facebook page and website for delivery updates. Cheers to fresh, local beer!
