Our pal Jerry popped by our office one day with an impish look on his face. “You will not believe what I found.” Oh? “Banana Bread Beer. I have a bottle. When I saw it in the store, I figured I had to get it for you. Do you want it?” All we could do was smile wide. This is one of the reasons why we love Jerry.
Our expectations for this 5.2% alcohol beer were low. We feared it would be cloying, a bit like liquified banana chips.
We were pleasantly surprised. The beer has a medium body, and it was not sweet in the least. There was a gentle banana note, and some baking spices (nutmeg? ginger?). It is a nice autumn or winter beer, the sort of brew where one 16.9 ounce bottle is plenty. (Rating****)
Those who want to surprise party guests might consider getting some bottles of this, opening them up, and setting out small glasses. Folks likely would find it a treat to try something so off-the-beaten path. For further details, see http://www.wellsandyoungs.co.uk/home/our-beers/ales/wells-banana-bread-beer. The U.S. importer is Belkus Marketing, Inc. of College Station, Texas.
My wife and I love Banana Bread Beer and have been buying it here in Colorado for years. My wife often makes banana bread and will use 1/2 cup of Banana Bread Beer for that additional flavor and yeast boost. Glad to see it reviewed here.