Wild Dog Collaborator

The “Open Source Beer Project” is something that has fascinated us for some time. (For our previous coverage, read: Open Source Beer Project – Flying Dog Brewery, Open Source Beer Project – Now it has a name, and Open Source Beer Project – It’s out!)

The result of that project is a doppelbock named Collaborator, and is part of Flying Dog’s “Wild Dog” series.

Well, I finally got around to picking up a bottle. True to form, I’ve managed to do this just as the guys at Flying Dog are getting ready for another go ’round. They’re talking about Open Source Beer Project 2.0. (I always seem to get things just as the newer, better version is coming out.)


From Flying Dog’s website:

Collaborator has a full body with a sweet malt profile and a slight roast character. The complete recipe and printable labels are available for download at http://www.opensourcebeerproject.com/. We want to thank everyone who contributed to creating this beer, it truly was a collaboration.

ABV: 8.3%
Plato: 19.5
IBU’s: 24
Specialty Malts: Munich “Type I” 2240 75, Munich “Type II” 550 19, Cara-Munich 55 2, Cara-Amber 55 2, Melanoidin 55 2
Hops: Warrior, Mt. Hood

Had a bit of trouble with the cork since, well, it’s not made of cork, but I manage to get it out without incident. Pours a nice, deep amber with very little head. The aroma is very reminiscent of brandy and/or wine. Body is heavy (as it should be) with a bit of sweetness around the edges and a little bite from the alcohol, but mostly warmth. That’s pretty good and will be a pleasant way to wile away a crisp autumn evening. Most shocking of all, however, is that my wife likes it. Just when I thought I knew the styles of beer she liked…