Among the many unique craft beer offerings found across the United States, Gate City Tarty McFly stands out as a bold and creative expression of flavor, nostalgia, and brewing innovation. This sour-style beer pays homage to a retro pop culture vibe while delivering a modern and refreshingly tart drinking experience. Known for its vibrant color, tangy berry character, and balanced acidity, Tarty McFly is a local favorite in Georgia and gaining traction among craft beer enthusiasts elsewhere. Whether you’re a casual drinker or a seasoned aficionado, this brew deserves a closer look for its taste profile, origin story, and growing popularity in taprooms and beer festivals alike.
Introduction to Gate City Brewing Company
A Craft Brewery with Southern Charm
Gate City Brewing Company is located in Roswell, Georgia, and has been at the heart of the local craft beer movement since its founding. The brewery is known for producing a wide variety of beers, ranging from hop-forward IPAs to crisp lagers and unique seasonal brews. One of its most talked-about releases is the Tarty McFly, a kettle sour that blends a fruity zing with a smooth and drinkable body.
Focus on Innovation and Quality
Gate City has built a reputation for using high-quality ingredients and experimenting with non-traditional flavors. Tarty McFly exemplifies their willingness to push boundaries while maintaining balance and consistency, two key aspects of a well-crafted beer. Their focus on small-batch brewing ensures that each pour offers fresh flavor and character.
What Is Tarty McFly?
A Kettle Sour with Personality
Tarty McFly is classified as a kettle sour ale, a beer style that emphasizes tartness derived from lactic acid fermentation in the brewing kettle. This approach gives brewers more control over the souring process and shortens the brewing timeline. Tarty McFly distinguishes itself with a blend of raspberries and blackberries, offering a naturally sweet and tangy profile with a vibrant pinkish-red hue.
Flavor Profile and Appearance
- Color: Bright magenta with a slight haze
- Aroma: Fresh berries, lemon zest, and a subtle malt base
- Taste: Tart raspberry and blackberry notes with a crisp, dry finish
- Body: Light to medium, effervescent mouthfeel
- ABV: Around 5%, making it sessionable
The Name and Pop Culture Connection
The playful name Tarty McFly is a nod to the iconic character Marty McFly from the classic 1980s film series ‘Back to the Future.’ This pop culture reference enhances the appeal of the beer, attracting fans of both retro cinema and adventurous craft brews. The label design often mirrors that nostalgia, adding a whimsical touch to the overall experience.
Why Tarty McFly Is Gaining Popularity
A Perfect Summer Sour
Tarty McFly is ideal for warm weather sipping. Its refreshing tartness, combined with fruity undertones, makes it a go-to for outdoor gatherings, picnics, or simply relaxing on a sunny afternoon. Many beer lovers appreciate its bright, slightly puckering finish that never overwhelms the palate.
Low Bitterness, High Flavor
Unlike traditional IPAs or strong ales, kettle sours like Tarty McFly are known for low bitterness. This makes the beer approachable for those new to sour ales and appealing to a wide range of drinkers who may shy away from hoppy or overly complex brews.
Craft Beer Trend Toward Fruity Sours
There’s been a notable shift in the craft beer world toward experimental sours with real fruit infusions. Tarty McFly fits perfectly within this trend by offering a balanced, natural fruit-forward character without artificial additives. Its popularity continues to rise as more people seek out flavorful, unique options beyond the usual beer styles.
Pairing Tarty McFly with Food
Food That Complements Tart Beers
The vibrant acidity of Tarty McFly pairs well with a variety of foods. Its tart berry flavors can cut through rich dishes and enhance lighter fare:
- Cheese: Creamy goat cheese or brie pairs beautifully with the fruity sourness
- Poultry: Grilled chicken or duck with berry reduction
- Salads: Mixed greens with vinaigrette, walnuts, and seasonal fruit
- Desserts: Lemon bars, berry tarts, or cheesecake
Seasonal and Themed Pairings
Tarty McFly also works well for themed events or holidays. Its bright hue and light body make it an excellent addition to summer BBQs, brunches, or Valentine’s Day gatherings where red and pink-themed treats are served. The beer’s aesthetic appeal enhances the atmosphere while pleasing the taste buds.
Where to Find Tarty McFly
At the Gate City Taproom
The best place to experience Tarty McFly is straight from the source at the Gate City Brewing taproom in Roswell. Here, visitors can enjoy the freshest pours, explore other creative offerings, and often find exclusive small-batch variants that aren’t available in distribution.
Local Bars and Retail Availability
Gate City Brewing distributes across parts of Georgia, so you can often find Tarty McFly in local bottle shops, specialty grocery stores, and on tap at craft beer bars. Availability may vary by season, as this sour is sometimes released in limited runs or as part of a rotating selection.
Events and Beer Festivals
Craft beer festivals in the Southeast U.S. frequently feature Gate City Brewing, and Tarty McFly is a crowd favorite. Sampling it at a festival allows newcomers to get a taste before seeking out a full pour or pack. It’s often included in tasting lineups due to its approachable style and vibrant flavor.
The Community and Culture Around Tarty McFly
Appealing to a Younger Audience
With its nostalgic name, vivid branding, and fruity profile, Tarty McFly is especially popular among younger beer drinkers who enjoy lighter, less bitter beverages. The branding speaks to a culture that appreciates fun, pop culture, and individuality values embraced by many in the craft beer scene.
Creating a Unique Drinking Experience
Gate City Brewing emphasizes not just beer, but the full experience around it. Tarty McFly is often served in colorful glassware or featured during themed events at the taproom. It’s a social drink, meant to be enjoyed with friends and shared across tables and Instagram feeds alike.
A Sour Worth Trying
Gate City Tarty McFly is more than just a clever name it’s a testament to how craft breweries can blend creativity, nostalgia, and flavor into a well-crafted beer. From its tart, fruity flavor to its vibrant visual appeal, it stands out in an increasingly crowded sour beer market. Whether you’re a sour beer veteran or a curious first-timer, Tarty McFly offers a satisfying and refreshing take on kettle sours that deserves a place in your glass. As interest in this style continues to grow, don’t be surprised if Tarty McFly becomes a staple at local taprooms and beyond.