Fleur-de-lis Restoration Ale, Abita Brewing Co., Abita Springs, LA

I'll be the first to admit that I want to like the Abita Fleur-de-lis Restoration Ale. I love the city of New Orleans, it is a tremendous place to visit, but this bias should not be reflected in my review. I thought the beer was going to be strong and come out fighting, instead it came out light throwing me for a loop. Instead of doused with an expected strong malty taste, I was spritzed with a grape citrusy flavor. After a few more sips the unique grape whispers began piquing my palette. Personal biases, unachievable expectations and unexpected styles aside, I am left rating this beer a 3, a draw in a way. Fair? perhaps, perhaps not. This beer is on my radar however.