TGIF: Is It Any Wonder

Let’s be honest…there are worse ways to kickstart the weekend than with a cold beverage.

And yet, it’s easy to fall into a routine of buying the same couple of beers or spirits at your favorite watering hole or the LCBO. Of course, there’s always going to be your standard go-to’s. But mixing it up (get it…mixing???) makes for a fun outing.

With that in mind, we’re taking a shot (bet you thought we would stop with the drinking puns after that first one) at finding you a weekly selection of spirits to liven up your Friday.

This week why don’t your try…

WONDERSTAR BOTANICAL LAGER – FLYING MONKEY’S

The first pours produces a slightly hazy golden-apricot hue, generating a finger’s worth of creamy white head that holds together post-pour. Juniper, orange and citrus come through when the aroma hits, along with notes of spice, raspberry and watermelon.

Wonderstar has a grainy, crackery pale malt backbone. Although that is quickly overtaken by a wave of citrusy hops, floral hibiscus, piney juniper and raspberry. The spicy juniper, mixed in with citrusy hops carry on through the sitting, eventually ending with an off-dry finish.

Light in body, with foundational carbonation that prickles the gums throughout your sipping, the mouthfeel is mostly smooth.

Overall this lager is a well-made, summery blend. The juniper is a pleasant addition, while the hibiscus blends in nicely with the fruitier components.