Bière De Mars

Flanders Red Ale | Seasonal | United States

By Sean Coughlin

Judges Rating: 87
Aroma: 21
Appearance: 4
Flavor: 35
Mouthfeel: 10
Overall Impression: 17

A fruit-forward aroma with notes of sour white grapes is supported by some lightly browned pie crust. A leathery element of Brettanomyces in the background adds an element of complexity and intrigue. Oak rounds out the nose and becomes more prominent as the beer warms. The color is a murky deep gold with a medium dense khaki head that does not persist. The flavor is complex with light pepper, leather, cherry, and bread crust dominated by lightly toasted oak that lasts long into the finish. The balance is decidedly towards the oak and leathery Brettanomyces, leaving a wanting for a slightly more acetic and vinous character. Medium-bodied, this beer finds a way to be light and crisp with a fairly dry finish, making it a wonderful candidate for a summer evening sipper. The beer has an interesting balance of flavors but is a bit overwhelmingly oak-forward and lacks the darker fruit flavor that would make it a hallmark Flanders Red.