Yazoo: The Beacon

Yazoobrew.com

Calfkillerbeer.com

We’ve only written about food so far, but when we tasted this beer we had to share it with everyone.  Yazoo Brewing Company of Nashville, TN and Calfkiller brewing Copmany Sparta, TN got together to create a truly unique ale.  The two middle Tennessee breweries joined forces to brew an ale calling attention to Tennessee’s craft beer taxes which are the highest in the nation.  Rightfully so, Beacon has been dubbed a “Tennessee High Tax Ale.” 

The experience of this beer starts with label and packaging.  Your eyes are immediately drawn to a pig, which is quartered, with a light shining on it.  The various parts of the pig list the state of Tennessee taxes per gallon on wine ($1.21), domestic beers ($1.37), college party beers ($1.13) and craft beers ($1.86). As you explore the label you notice on the left hand side, a pretty humorous description of this “oppressively refreshing” beer.  We actually chuckled audibly when reading this.  Prior to popping the top you must first get through several inches of red tape, wrapped tightly around the neck of the bottle. Well played Yazoo. Well played. 

The beer pours cloudy, golden color and clears up as it sits.  You’ll also see and taste a high level of carbonation.  Take a good whiff of the Beacon before you enjoy it.  There’s a definite smoky, citric bouquet attached to the beer.  The smoke no doubt comes from the smoked German wheat used to brew it.  The smoke is very prominent in the first sip you take and it finishes with a dry, fruity flavor.  I could see this going very well with some BBQ or cheese. 

Beacon hasn’t reached all stores and restaurants yet, but I was able to find it at Whole Foods in East Memphis.  We strongly suggest trying this beer for its unique flavor, but also encourage you to support Tennessee breweries in working to lower an oppressive tax that reduces their ability to compete and grow.  Happy drinking!