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BC Review's picture

Goudenband

Judges Rating: 
96
Aroma: 
23 / 24
Appearance: 
6 / 6
Flavor: 
39 / 40
Mouthfeel: 
9 / 10
Overall Impression: 
19 / 20

The nose picks up a cornucopia of caramel, sour cherries, passion fruit and fig jam with traces of dark malts, cocoa nibs and balsamic vinegar. This deep brown ale boasts ruddy red hues and soft, tan foam that leaves attractive lacing on the glass. A vibrant, moderately sour flavor profile comes across as refreshing -- yet complex -- with layers of fruit esters giving way to a lactic/acetic acid finish. Hops are almost unnoticeable, with bold tastes of figs, sherry, prunes, dates, blackberries, blood oranges, wine barrel, kiwi and passion fruit. The refreshing, acidic backbone of this well-aged, medium-bodied ale is balanced by sweet, dark, biscuity malts and complex esters, which produce a charming, sweet and sour conclusion.