Crossing the Redbridge

Posted: February 10th, 2008 | Author: Stacy | Filed under: Beer Reviews, Commercial Brew, Gluten-free, What's that in your fridge? | No Comments »

I finally succumbed to curiosity/beerlessness and bought a bottle of Redbridge, Anheuser-Busch’s sorghum beer. Yes, I know, I don’t like A-B at all, and was really reluctant to try their version of a gluten-free beer. But it was the only “beer” option apart from the previously reviewed Bard’s Tale, and given that I’ve been drinking mostly cider and wine, any beer was better than no beer.

The verdict is that Redbridge is OK. It kind of reminded me of Stella Artois, which I know people love but I really don’t like at all. The flavor is just strangely astringent/bitter, a little metallic, and lacking depth much like your usual A-B beer; it was fizzy and fairly light on the palate. It was pretty lightly hopped, and had little hoppy aroma or finish. It still didn’t taste like a proper beer, so I’m guessing it’s a beer replacement much like those “coffee replacement” teas you can find at some health food-oriented stores. It just ain’t right!

While the price on Redbridge isn’t awful at $7.99/6-pack, it’s not worth it for what you get. I think it might appeal to people with serious gluten allergies or Celiac Disease, who maybe haven’t had actually beer in years if ever. My tongue still remembers what a proper beer tastes like. I mostly tried the beer because A) I’d really like a beer and B) I wanted to support even A-B in their efforts to provide alternative beer options. I mean, that’s what they do best: give the people what they want, even if what they want is total crap.

So, I won’t be buying Redbridge again. I guess it’s more cider and wine for me! In other booze news, we bought some 12 Bridges Gin made by Integrity Spirits here in Portland. Interesting gin! Very different.

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