I do quite enjoy a Belgian-style white ale (witbier) during summer, with the coriander and orange spice profile over a bright, crisp wheat which just hits right in hot weather. So I’ve enjoyed the opportunity to review Nit Wit White Ale from BJ’s Restaurant and Brewhouse, which I received from the company recently.
Nit Wit is a limited-release run that BJ’s brought back after a three-year hiatus, available on tap at the company’s various locations as well as in cans. Here’s a description I’d posted previously:
This 5X gold medal-winning Belgian-style witbier is brewed with coriander and orange peel, delivering a refreshing citrus aroma, a smooth wheat character, and a crisp, dry finish that makes every sip go down easy. With 4.7% ABV and just 9 IBU, it’s light, sessionable, and perfect for toasting with friends, kicking off the weekend, or just enjoying the little wins.
According to the label on the cans, the canned version was brewed in Temple, Texas.
Appearance: Hazy light orange with little, almost no head, but what’s present is white.
Smell: Coriander and orange, along with a phenolic note that gives some classic band aid. Lightly doughy wheat, like a cinnamon roll dough.
Taste: Raw wheat with a slight tart character followed by a juicy orange note. A touch of spice— coriander, perhaps clove, white pepper. Lightly phenolic as well which gives way to a crisp yeast character. Slight bitterness at the back.
Mouthfeel: Medium-light body, slightly muddy texture, but refreshing with a yeasty and subtly spicy finish.
Overall: The yeast phenolics are somewhat prominent which detracts a bit from the coriander I’d like, but it’s got some nice orange characteristics and drinks well when it’s hot out.
