Withwine (literally translated as wheat wine) is a very young craft style, it is not yet 30 years old. There are no strict style criteria, each brewer interprets it in his own way, wheat malt and increased strength remain unchanged. It is possible to use dark malt, but in small quantities: the drink acquires color not from it, but during long-term brewing.
This beer is so strong that it is drunk mainly in winter to keep warm, in small sips. The bouquet is distinguished by complex malt flavors with tones of bread, wheat, honey, caramel. The hops are felt soft, delicate, the nuances of the profile depend on the selected hop variety. Some diacetyl can be detected, dried fruit is acceptable, but a distinct Weizen yeast flavor is contrary to style standards.
Malt-hop balance leans towards malt, but bitterness is felt. Due to the high alcohol content, the drink may seem “wine”, after aging notes of oak appear.
Whitwine is distinguished by a rich golden color of varying degrees of intensity, red reflections are visible in the light. In the glass it forms a not too rich creamy foam. It becomes cloudy when cooled, but remains clear at room temperature. The drink is so thick that it forms viscous streaks on the walls of the glass.
It is a full-bodied style with a velvety texture, the alcohol feels like a pleasant warming warmth, it should never burn. Almost no carbonation is noticeable.
Two types of malt are taken as the basis: American two-row and wheat, and the share of the latter is at least 50%. Hop varieties are at the discretion of the grower.
The style is similar to wheat barleywine, but with a more complex bouquet. Compared to American barleywine, it contains fewer hops and is based on American rather than German ales.
Strength: 8.0-12.0%.
Density: initial 1.080-1.120, final 1.016-1.030.
Bitterness Index: 30-60 IBU.
Color: 8-15 SRM.