Beer reviews: Fisher Triticale Blues and SaltFire Punch a Nazi 

• Mike Riedel

Fisher - Triticale Blues: Triticale (pronounced trit-ih-KAY-lee) is a hybrid grain created by crossing wheat (Triticum) with rye (Secale). To be honest, I haven't had much experience with this grain, malted or otherwise, so I was really looking forward to tasting this beer. It's made in the fashion of an American-style wheat ale: more toasty, with none of the banana and clove associated with its German Hefeweizen cousin.

This new ale pours a hazy, sun-kissed golden straw, typical of an American wheat ale, crowned with a fluffy, persistent white head that leaves attractive lacing. The aroma immediately distinguishes itself. Alongside the expected soft bready notes and a light, lemony citrus hop character often found in American wheats, there's an intriguing undercurrent—a gentle, almost peppery spice and a subtle nutty earthiness that whispers of rye's influence, courtesy of the triticale.

The palate delivers classic American wheat refreshment. A clean, grainy sweetness forms the base, brightened by a touch of citrusy hop flavor that doesn't overpower. But it's the triticale malt that truly shines, weaving in that intriguing nutty character and a delicate, almost sweet rye-like spice that lingers pleasantly on the mid-palate. It's not as overtly spicy as a pure rye beer, but offers a more complex and slightly rustic grain profile than a standard wheat ale, adding a welcome depth.

The mouthfeel is delightful: medium-light in body with a crisp, effervescent carbonation that keeps it lively. There's a remarkably smooth, almost silky texture, likely enhanced by the triticale, making it incredibly quaffable. The finish is clean, with a lingering hint of nutty spice and a refreshing dryness.

Verdict: Triticale Blues successfully marries the familiar comfort of an American wheat ale with a welcome, nuanced twist. The triticale adds a wonderful depth and a subtle rustic charm without sacrificing the easy-drinking, thirst-quenching 5.0 percent qualities of the style, resulting in a thoughtfully crafted and enjoyable ale.

SaltFire - Punch a Nazi: The label is straightforward, unapologetic and to the point. This American pale ale pours a clear, inviting golden amber, crowned with a persistent, creamy white head that leaves attractive lacing as it recedes. The aroma is a classic APA greeting: a bright and lively bouquet where zesty citrus peel, particularly grapefruit and orange rind, takes the lead, closely followed by notes of freshly-cut grass and a pleasant, resinous pine character.

The first sip delivers on the aromatics. Those upfront flavors of sharp citrus peel, crisp grassy notes and a distinct piney bite make an immediate, refreshing impact. But this isn't a one-note hop assault; there's a commendable malt character providing a solid foundation. Subtle biscuit and light caramel tones emerge mid-palate, offering a gentle sweetness that balances the hop bitterness and adds a welcome depth and body to the brew.

As the initial hop punch subsides, the experience transitions smoothly, riding what can only be described as an "herbal hop slide" towards the conclusion. This nuanced herbal quality, perhaps hints of dried oregano or a subtle minty character, carries through to a finish that is decidedly bitter—clean, palate-cleansing, and assertive—yet it doesn't overstay its welcome or become astringent.

Verdict: At 5 percent alcohol, Punch a Nazi is wonderfully drinkable, a well-crafted American pale ale that showcases a bright, multi-faceted hop profile grounded by good malt structure, culminating in a satisfyingly bitter, yet crisp, finish. It will also make a grand statement at your next summer gathering.

Punch a Nazi is available at SaltFire Brewing, and you may also find it at some of the better beer pubs around SLC. Fisher's Triticale Blues is only available at Fisher on draft or to-go in crowlers.

As always, cheers!