Terrapin Beer Co.
Athens, GA
Gamma Ray is made with Georgia’s Tupelo and Sourwood honeys from the Savannah Bee Co.
ABV: 11
ABW: 8.8
Color: n/a
Bitterness: 38
Original gravity: 22.6
Beer Talk
Gamma Ray Wheat Wine
Published November 2008, Volume 29, Number 5
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Lisa Morrison
Ever since I had my first (Old Sol at Big Time Brewing in Seattle), I’ve always been a sucker for wheat wine. This one is surprisingly effervescent for such a big beer. Banana, clove and bubblegum smack you across the head at first whiff. The theme carries on, with caramel, bready and honey flavors joining the dance — the latter no doubt from the local Tupelo and Sourwood honey added to the brew. Gamma Ray, the third in Terrapin’s special Side Project series, doesn’t disappoint, until you remember that it is a very limited release.
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Jeff Evans
The impressive thing about this limited-edition beer is how well the alcohol is kept under control. When you reach the giddy heights of 11% ABV, all sorts of unwelcome flavors can creep in, but this “wheat wine” still stays true to its roots, with a delicate balance of clean weizen characteristics, including light banana, mild clove, a touch of pineapple and a suggestion of bubblegum. Adding to the drinkability is the lacing of honey, mellowing and softening the palate and adding a moreish note to the warming, clove-like finish. Really well-executed.
