Black Flannel Academy

Wheatwine

top-fermented

A richly textured, high alcohol sipping beer with a significant grainy, bready flavor, and a sleek body.

Color

6 – 14 SRM

Bitterness

30 – 60 IBU

Alcohol

8.0 – 12.0% ABV

Sweetness

Balance

Moderate to moderately-high bready wheat malt flavor, dominant in the flavor balance over any hop character.

History

Historical Development

American craft creation first brewed at Rubicon Brewing Company in 1988. Typically released as winter seasonal or vintage offerings.

Modern Evolution

Classic characteristics

Appearance

Golden to deep amber, sometimes showing garnet or ruby tones. Low to medium off-white head with potential creaminess and solid retention. Chill haze acceptable but typically clears when warmed.

Aroma

Mild hop character from any variety. Moderate to moderately-strong bready, wheaty malt character with possible honey and caramel complexity. Clean alcohol notes are light, with low to medium fruity notes. Weizen yeast character is inappropriate.

Flavor

Moderate to moderately-high bready wheat malt flavor, dominant in the flavor balance over any hop character. Optional toasty, caramel, biscuity, or honey notes add complexity. Moderate to moderately-high fruitiness, often with a dried-fruit character.

Mouthfeel

Medium-full to full-bodied, chewy, often with a luscious, velvety texture. Low-to-moderate carbonation; optional light-to-moderate smooth alcohol warmth.

Flavor Profile Deep Dive

Service notes

BJCP designation

Overall Impression: A richly textured, high alcohol sipping beer with a significant grainy, bready flavor, and a sleek body.

Comments: Much of the color arises from a lengthy boil. Commercial versions may exceed stated strength parameters.

Style Comparison: Wheat-based rather than barleywine derivative. Less hop emphasis than American Barleywine. Rooted in American wheat styles, lacking Weizen yeast character.

Vital Statistics: OG: 1.080 – 1.120 | FG: 1.016 – 1.030 | IBUs: 30 – 60 | SRM: 6 – 14 | ABV: 8.0 – 12.0%

Source: BJCP 2021 Style Guidelines, bjcp.org, retrieved 2026-09-13. Vital statistics are as published; descriptive text is condensed from the published guideline.

Brewers Association designation

Style comparison

Similar Styles

Wheat-based rather than barleywine derivative. Less hop emphasis than American Barleywine. Rooted in American wheat styles, lacking Weizen yeast character.

Ingredients

Grain Bill

American two-row and wheat blend, often with 50% or more wheat malt. Restrained dark malt usage. Any hop variety acceptable. May undergo oak aging.