Grand Cru

Flanders Red Ale | Year-Round | Belgium

By Garrick van Buren

Judges Rating: 90
Aroma: 22
Appearance: 6
Flavor: 36
Mouthfeel: 8
Overall Impression: 18

This is a full, satisfying Flanders Red. The dark cherry fruitiness and tartness dominates both the aroma and flavor. This fruitiness is well supported by a complex blend of dark chocolate, raisin, vanilla, orange, and caramel. The brilliantly clear amber body has a firm head of beige bubbles with a medium-full mouthfeel and moderate carbonation, making the tartness crisp and refreshing. Pair this beer with a Waldorf goat cheese salad – the acidity and fruitiness in both will pinball off each other. If you’d prefer it for dessert, try a scoop of vanilla ice cream with a drizzling of caramel sauce.