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Lindemans Sixth-Generation Brewer and Managing Director Geert Lindemans Talks Cuvée de l’Amitié

96 Rating - Exceptional

Lindemans Sixth-Generation Brewer and Managing Director Geert Lindemans Talks Cuvée de l’Amitié

We spoke with Lindemans sixth-generation brewer and marketing director Geert Lindemans about Cuvée de l’Amitié.

Who was responsible for this beer’s recipe?
It was truly a collaborative effort. Several American guests and their families, along with myself; Sep, our head of brewing and blending; brewmasters Peter and Filip; and representatives from our American importer, production, and marketing teams joined us at our historic Vlezenbeek brewery to develop the blend. We selected lambic from four separate barrels of different ages and took turns tasting and judging different combinations of the available lambics.

What sets this beer apart from other examples within the style?
It is an incredibly accessible Oude Gueuze. Bright notes of green apple and a hint of floral elderflower soften the sourness of this traditional blend. This beer distinguishes itself through its exceptional equilibrium; no single flavor or aroma prevails, allowing all components to blend seamlessly into a balanced, unified character.

What makes this beer truly World Class?
Its very name, Cuvée de l’Amitié, is an ode to friendship and to the collaboration that made this beer possible. It is also a special blend due to the age of the lambic used. Our traditional Oude Gueuze, Cuvée René, is a blend of one- and three-year-old lambics, while this blend is even older and more complex—made from three-, five-, and six-year-old lambics from our brewery’s foeders.

What is your favorite aspect of this beer (flavor, aroma, mouthfeel, etc.)?
What I love most about this beer is the remarkable balance between acidity and fullness—it truly approaches perfection. On top of that, all the characteristic aromas of spontaneous fermentation are present and beautifully harmonized, creating a complex yet elegant profile.

How popular is this beer among your faithful fans?
Cuvée de l’Amitié has already been recognized by several U.S. press publications and has received a plethora of fan accolades, so we’ve been very happy to hear the positive feedback. Despite only producing 12,000 bottles, demand for this special brew has been high.

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