NoLo beers have surged from nowhere to a position of ubiquity in the craft beer world; indeed, non-alc versions of most usually boozy beverages have surprised many with their popularity. And now Denmark-based Boston Brewing Co have entered the market, brewing beers refined over a year and dozens of trials onsite, utilising the limited fermentation method before running them through their pasteurisation tunnel. Both have been released under the Little Wren moniker – a nod to their blue wren mascot.
Little Wren Raspberry Sour is pretty much spot on as a "does what it says on the tin" beer, pairing a light body with bright raspberry character and a balanced acidity. There's no head retention to speak of but this well put together, refreshing non-alc offering is so close to the real thing it almost had this writer fooled.
The trusty pale ale is such a staple of the craft beer world it makes for a sensible choice in any non-alc lineup. Little Wren Pale Ale is super pale, leaning closer to the sort of colour you'd associate with an XPA, yet possess plenty of character akin to the OG alcohol-laced versions. Modest bitterness with grassy and citrus notes are layered on top of a medium body with subtle malt character.
While competition is fierce in the NoLo segment, Boston can expect to fare well as their quality Little Wrens take flight.
Jono Outred
NB If you're reading this in time, we've got three mixed cases of Little Wren beers up for grabs for members of our beer club, The Crafty Cabal. Head here for more.
Published July 1, 2024 2024-07-01 00:00:00
